Renowned Franco-German coach Gernot Rohr has set his sights on a blockbuster France versus Germany showdown in the Round of 16, while also praising the impact of African teams at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as “wonderful.”
Rohr’s World Cup praise on his 73rd birthday
Marking his 73rd birthday, Rohr said he felt “very proud” of how African nations performed during the group stage. He pointed to the fact that the continent’s representatives all progressed into the last-16 phase, with the exception of Tunisia, describing the collective surge as evidence of modern tactical progress.
“I’m already very proud of the results of the African teams,” Rohr said. “Only Tunisia was the exception. And, really, it’s wonderful. They are all now in round of last 16. It’s great. I hope that they will go until the final. Why not?”
Rohr recalls watching key matches in New York
Rohr, whose playing career included time at Bayern Munich and whose later experience involved both playing and coaching at Bordeaux, revealed he was in New York for several notable group-stage moments.
- He watched Morocco’s group-stage draw with Brazil.
- He also attended Cote d’Ivoire’s match against Ecuador.
- He witnessed Germany’s game versus Senegal.
He saved special praise for Senegal, highlighting the team’s ability to respond after a difficult start.
“Each of the African teams did well,” Rohr said. “Senegal started not so well, but now they finished in big shape. I’m sure they can go far.”
Knockout football brings a different test
Even with the positive group-stage momentum, Rohr stressed that the knockout stage changes the equation.
“This is a different competition now — knockout round,” he said. “We will see.”
Waiting for a France–Germany Round of 16
Rohr’s main fixture on the horizon is a potential France–Germany meeting in the Round of 16, which he framed as a meaningful clash given his origins in France and his long connection to German football.
“I’m waiting for a France-Germany in the round of last 16,” Rohr added. “It will not be an easy Round of 16 fixture if they both win their next round of 32 matches.”
Result
South Africa 0-1 Canada-Los Angeles
