Gernot Rohr's Benin went into their 2026 World Cup qualifier against African giants Nigeria as underdogs on Monday evening.

After the final whistle sounded, they had vanquished their fancied neighbours, who boasted a talented European-based squad with a 2-1 scoreline.

Rohr, who coached Nigeria before, was delighted with the win that saw his team take control of their group, which also has South Africa.

The Super Eagles were looking for their first win in the qualifiers after drawing with Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Bafana Bafana last Friday in Uyo.

Benin top a tough Group C

Rohr's side, on the other hand, had beaten Rwanda on Thursday, June 6, their first win in Group C. They had lost to South Africa and drawn with Lesotho in their first two matches.

On Monday, they went down 1-0 in the 28th minute after Raphael Onyedika's well-taken goal. Two goals late in the first half through Jodel Dossou and Steve Mounie gave the Cheetahs a 2-1 lead, which they held onto for the rest of the game.

Benin are now top of Group C with seven points from four matches, while the three-time African champions are fifth with three points and are winless in the qualifying campaign, per FIFA.

Rohr reacts to Benin vs Nigeria

Speaking to Brila, the German tactician was happy his team pulled off an upset win against his former employers.

"It was a great game for us. You know that Benin could never win against Nigeria," he said.

"It was difficult when we conceded the first goal, but the reaction was great, and my young players did very well."

The veteran was happy to see some familiar faces from the Nigerian camp.

"My former boys, I'm always happy to meet them again, On the pitch there's no friendship.