Benin head coach Gernot Rohr has acknowledged the scale of the challenge awaiting his side as they prepare to face Egypt, but insists his players are ready to embrace their underdog status with ambition and belief.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Rohr described the encounter as a “very complicated match” against a top-level opponent, stressing that Benin’s growing experience against elite sides could prove decisive.
“We know we are not favourites, but we want to play our chance to the fullest,” Rohr said. “We have the ambition to put in a good performance and, why not, qualify.”
Despite concerns over injuries and a suspension within the squad, the German tactician remains confident in the mentality of his group. According to Rohr, motivation and collective spirit will be key as Benin seek to defy expectations against the seven-time African champions.
“All the predictions favour Egypt,” he admitted. “But we want to prove them wrong.”