Gernot Rohr Names Remo Stars Goalkeeper Serge Obassa in Benin Squad for World Cup Qualifiers

Benin Republic head coach Gernot Rohr has handed a call-up to Remo Stars shot-stopper Serge Obassa in his 25-man squad for the Squirrels’ upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Nigeria, TalkTalk Nigeria reports.

Rohr, who previously managed the Super Eagles, unveiled his list at a press conference in Cotonou on Friday. Obassa’s inclusion comes after a stellar run with Remo Stars, where he has cemented himself as the club’s undisputed first-choice goalkeeper since joining the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions last season.

The squad also features familiar names, including Saturnin Allagbe, Olivier Verdon, Mohamed Tjani, Cedric Hountounji, captain Steve Mounie, Junior Olaitan, Jodel Dossou, and Tosin Ayegun.

Benin will first face Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium, Kigali, before traveling to Uyo for a mouthwatering clash against Rohr’s former team, the Super Eagles of Nigeria, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium four days later.

Opinion: Rohr’s Reunion With Nigeria Spices Up the Clash

The upcoming showdown between Nigeria and Benin has just gotten more intriguing with Rohr at the helm of the Squirrels. His intimate knowledge of Nigerian football—players, style, and even weaknesses—adds a tactical twist to the fixture.

For Obassa, this call-up is more than a personal milestone; it’s also a statement about the rising reputation of the NPFL. Seeing a home-based goalkeeper earn recognition on the international stage is encouraging for Nigerian football, even if he will be standing against the Super Eagles.

The question, however, is whether Rohr’s men can rise to the occasion against a Nigerian team stacked with European-based stars. Benin have often been underestimated, but with Rohr’s motivation and inside knowledge, this could be one of the most fiercely contested qualifiers in recent memory.

One thing is certain: Obassa will have his biggest test yet, and Nigerian fans will watch closely to see if the NPFL standout can frustrate their beloved Eagles.