“The match will be very difficult for us” – Rohr admits as Benin prepare for Egypt test

Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr has admitted that his side faces a very difficult task against seven-time champions Egypt in their round-of-16 clash at the ongoing 2025 1XBET Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Rohr acknowledged the quality and experience within the Egyptian squad, describing the Pharaohs as a great team packed with world-class players, but maintained that his players will approach the contest with belief.

“We are now in the Nations Cup round of 16, and we will face Egypt,” Rohr told reporters on Thursday. “It will be a tough game against a great team. We know Egypt’s stars. The match will be very difficult for us, but as the underdogs, we still have our chances.”

The Franco-German tactician noted that while much attention is often placed on Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, Egypt’s strength goes far beyond their headline names, with depth and quality across the squad.

Benin are bidding to reach the AFCON quarter-finals for only the second time in their history, while Egypt, who were knocked out at this stage in the previous edition in Ivory Coast, will be eager to go further this time.

Despite the daunting challenge, Rohr believes AFCON remains a competition where reputations can count for little and surprises are always possible.

Benin have also received a timely boost ahead of the encounter with the return of midfielder Sessi D’Almeida, who has recovered from the hamstring injury he suffered during their second group-stage match against Botswana.