Gernot Rohr Says Zimbabwe Won't Qualify for World Cup After 2-2 Draw with Benin Republic

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Following a 2-2 draw between Benin Republic and Zimbabwe in Match Day 5 of Group C in the African World Cup qualifiers on Thursday evening, Benin’s coach, Gernot Rohr, has stated that Zimbabwe no longer have a chance of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

Benin initially took a 2-0 lead with goals from Steve Mounié and Dokou Dodo in the first half, but Zimbabwe fought back in the second half with strikes from Marshall Munetsi and Knowledge Musona to level the score.

With South Africa now leading Group C after a 2-0 victory over Lesotho, Zimbabwe trails by seven points. Despite this, Rohr acknowledged Zimbabwe’s determination and expects them to put up a strong fight in their upcoming match against Nigeria in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Tuesday evening.

Rohr also noted that Benin dominated the first half but allowed Zimbabwe to stage a comeback in the second. Speaking at the post-match press conference, he said, “We knew it was Zimbabwe’s last chance to keep their World Cup dreams alive. Now, with only three points, it’s over for them. However, they are a resilient team, and I believe they will give their all against Nigeria, as well as in their matches against Rwanda and Lesotho.”