Benin Republic coach Gernot Rohr has told his players to keep their heads in check ahead of next week’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against the Super Eagles in Uyo, warning that any act of indiscipline will be punished.

The former Super Eagles handler, who returns to familiar ground when Benin face Nigeria on October 14 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, said he will not tolerate careless bookings or emotional outbursts as the race for qualification heats up.

Rohr’s concern comes after nine of his players were placed on the verge of suspension heading into Friday’s clash with Rwanda. The affected players are Sessi d’Almeida, Yohan Roche, Jodel Dossou, Rodrigue Kossi, Mohamed Tijani, Samadou Attidjikou, Imourane Hassane, Junior Olaitan and Cédric Hountondji.

“If a player is suspended for a protest or a bad-tempered gesture, he will face a fine,” Rohr said. “Above all, we are very strict. We don’t want to be affected by this kind of lack of discipline.”

The stakes are high for the Cheetahs, who currently share the top spot in their qualifying group with South Africa on 14 points each, following a three-point deduction for Bafana Bafana. Nigeria sit just behind on 11 points, and Rohr knows that any lapse in concentration could undo their hard work.

Meanwhile, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has made two late changes to his 23-man squad, with Porto’s Zaidu Sanusi stepping in for the injured Bright Osayi-Samuel and forward Uche Christantus replacing Cyriel Dessers.

Nigeria will first face Lesotho on October 10th before coming home to face Benin. Two wins could take them to 17 points and put them in strong contention for a ticket to the 2026 World Cup, depending on South Africa’s results.