The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face Gabon in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff semi-final on Thursday at the Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
Both teams are just two wins away from keeping their World Cup hopes alive, with the winner set to meet either Cameroon or DR Congo in the final playoff on November 16, the victor of which will advance to the intercontinental playoffs in March 2026.
Match Preview
Nigeria gained a boost in their qualifying campaign after FIFA docked Group C leaders South Africa three points for fielding an ineligible player. Despite the ruling, Bafana Bafana secured top spot with a final-round win over Rwanda, leaving the Super Eagles to fight through the playoff route.
Eric Chelle’s side finished among the top four second-placed teams after a resounding 4-0 win over Benin Republic, ending their campaign with 17 points from 10 matches (W4, D5, L1) and a goal difference of +7. While Nigeria’s campaign exposed moments of inconsistency, the team remains one of Africa’s most talented on paper.
Having missed out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, another failure would mark the first time the Super Eagles have missed consecutive tournaments since their debut in 1994. Nevertheless, Nigeria enter this playoff on a strong run, unbeaten in their last six matches across all competitions, with victories in their previous two.
Gabon, runners-up in Group F, finished just one point behind group winners Ivory Coast. Thierry Mouyouma’s men collected 25 points from 10 games (W8, D1, L1), scoring 22 goals and conceding nine. The Panthers remain unbeaten in seven matches since a 5-1 loss to Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, blending experience with emerging talent to form a dangerous playoff side.
Historically, Nigeria hold the advantage in this fixture, winning three of the last five meetings, including a 2-0 victory in their most recent encounter in 2005. In nine meetings across all competitions, Gabon have beaten Nigeria once, with Nigeria claiming five wins and three draws. FIFA rankings further underline the gulf, with Nigeria 41st and Gabon 77th.
Thursday’s clash in Rabat will determine who advances to face Cameroon or DR Congo for a place in the intercontinental playoffs for a shot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Team News
Nigeria:
Coach Chelle has a near full-strength squad. Star striker Victor Osimhen, fresh off a UEFA Champions League hat-trick for Galatasaray, leads the attack. Ademola Lookman returns from suspension to partner Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze, while Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi are expected to anchor midfield. Defender Semi Ajayi may be rested due to a yellow card but remains available for the final if Nigeria advance. Experienced full-back Ola Aina remains sidelined.
Gabon:
Veteran forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is back to lead the line after serving a suspension, supported by Denis Bouanga. Coach Mouyouma has made just one addition – young centre-back Jonathan do Marcolino. Several key players remain sidelined due to injury, including Jim Allevinah, Shavy Babicka, Medwin Biteghe, Michel Mboula, and Junior Noubi Fotso.
Possible Lineups
Nigeria (4-3-3):
Nwabali; Frederick, Ekong, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Chukwueze, Ndidi, Iwobi, Simon; Osimhen, Lookman
Gabon (4-3-3):
Mbaba; Onfia, M’bemba, Manga; Lemina, Kanga, Ndong, Averlant; Obiang, Bouanga, Aubameyang
Prediction
Gabon’s attacking talent, spearheaded by Aubameyang, ensures a competitive encounter. However, Nigeria’s superior depth, star power, and attacking options give them the edge. Expect the Super Eagles to control the match and claim a 3-1 victory, moving one step closer to the 2026 World Cup.
