D’Almeida, Roche’s absence against Nigeria pose huge setback for Benin World Cup qualifier in Uyo
By Uzor Odigbo
Two Benin Republic’s key players, Yohan Roche and Sessi d’Almeida will be absent from Tuesday’s game in Uyo.
Benin Republic coach Gernot Rohr has confirmed that two of his most influential players Sessi D’Almeida and Yohan Roche will be unavailable for selection after receiving their second yellow cards in the Cheetahs’ hard-fought 1–0 victory over Rwanda on Friday.
Rohr has reportedly expressed disappointment over the suspensions but remained optimistic about his team’s chances against his former employers.
“We have lost two players for the match against Nigeria as a result of a second yellow card,” Rohr said. “But all is possible for the three teams South Africa, Benin and Nigeria. We now have the decision in our hands. This can be a little advantage, but we will see. Big suspense until the end of the qualifiers.”
The absence of Sessi D’Almeida, a combative defensive midfielder who plies his trade with Pau FC in France’s Ligue 2, will be a major blow for Benin.
Known for his tenacity, tactical intelligence, and leadership, the 29-year-old is the heartbeat of Rohr’s midfield often dictating play and breaking up opposition attacks.
D’Almeida, who previously featured for Barnsley and Valenciennes, has been one of the Cheetahs’ most consistent performers throughout the qualifying campaign.
Also suspended is Yohan Roche, the dependable central defender who plays for Red Star FC in France.
The 27-year-old, of Beninese and French descent, has been a key figure in Rohr’s backline, bringing composure, aerial strength, and organization to a side that has conceded just four goals in the qualifiers.
His absence leaves a significant void in Benin’s defensive setup as they prepare to face Nigeria’s potent attack.
Tuesday’s encounter carries special meaning. The Franco-German tactician previously managed Nigeria from 2016 to 2021, leading the Super Eagles to qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and a third-place finish at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
Now on the opposite side, Rohr is hoping to guide Benin Republic to their first-ever World Cup appearance a historic feat that would mark the pinnacle of his coaching career.
Meanwhile, the Super Eagles, also missing star forward Ademola Lookman through suspension, are determined to bounce back and keep their qualification hopes alive.
With both sides depleted but motivated, Tuesday’s clash in Uyo promises to be a tactical and emotional battle one that could shape the destiny of Group C in Africa’s road to the 2026 World Cup.
