Gernot Rohr Criticizes CAF’s Favoritism Toward Major Nations for CAN 2025

Gernot Rohr, the Benin national football team coach, has publicly criticized the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for its perceived favoritism towards major teams during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN). In a recent interview, he expressed his disappointment with the organization of the tournament hosted in Morocco.

Concerns Over Favoritism in CAN 2025

Rohr, who has an extensive coaching background across Africa, claimed that the structure of the tournament benefits bigger football nations. He stated that larger teams were allowed to play in the same stadiums, whereas smaller nations like Benin faced logistical challenges moving between cities.

Group Stage Outcomes

As the group stage of CAN 2025 concluded, all top-seeded teams finished in first place in their respective groups, leaving little room for surprises. Rohr noted this predictability as a result of the advantages granted to these major nations.

Logistical Challenges for Smaller Nations

Rohr highlighted the difficulties faced by smaller teams, like his own, stating, “We have to travel extensively, unlike the larger nations.” His players, who had to adapt to different stadiums and cities, now face Egypt in Agadir on January 5.

Discrepancies in Match Scheduling

Another issue troubling Rohr is the scheduling of matches. He pointed out that larger teams typically play during cooler evenings, whereas smaller teams are often scheduled for afternoon matches. This creates additional challenges for physical preparation and performance.

Concerns About Refereeing Standards

Rohr also criticized the quality of officiating compared to the previous tournament, held in Côte d’Ivoire. He noted that the current situation was “catastrophic,” citing a controversial goal conceded against Senegal where a foul was ignored by the referees.

• VAR malfunction during a crucial match against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• A questionable penalty awarded to Egypt in their match against South Africa.

Rohr concluded that the disparities in treatment between major and minor football nations remain an ongoing issue. He emphasized that despite the commercial interest in developing African football, the sporting aspect must not be overlooked.

As CAN 2025 progresses, Rohr’s critiques raise questions about the fairness and equity in tournament organization, reflecting broader issues within African football governance.