Former Super Eagles boss Gernot Rohr has cast doubt on Nigeria’s chances of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting that their hopes now hang by a thread after a 1-1 draw with South Africa in Bloemfontein.

While Rohr’s Benin side cruised past Lesotho with a resounding 4-0 win, the result left Nigeria trailing in third place with 11 points, behind group leaders South Africa (17 points) and Benin (14 points).

“We are happy about this great victory over Lesotho,” Rohr told NationSport. “We are also waiting on FIFA’s decision regarding South Africa’s use of an ineligible player, but as it stands, Nigeria’s chances are slim. I had predicted a win for them in Bloemfontein, but with the draw, they now have only a very small chance to qualify. It’s frustrating, and I pity my former players who might not be going to the next World Cup.”

Looking ahead to October’s final qualifier, Rohr acknowledged the emotional weight of leading Benin against his former team in Uyo, a stadium where he enjoyed fond memories as Nigeria’s manager.

“It will be a great feeling to return to Uyo,” Rohr said. “We beat Nigeria 2-1 in Abidjan on Matchday 6, and we’ll go to Uyo hoping to qualify. That stadium remains one of the best in Africa, and it will be special to see familiar faces again.”

With only two matchdays left, Nigeria’s World Cup hopes may now depend on results elsewhere and a favourable ruling from FIFA.