Super Eagles Clash with Gabon in High-Stakes World Cup Playoff in Rabat

The Nigerian Super Eagles are set to face Gabon’s Panthers on 13 November 2025 in Rabat, Morocco, in a crucial CAF playoff encounter that will determine a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup inter-confederation playoff.

Nigeria secured their playoff berth as one of the top runners-up in the African qualifiers, highlighted by a 4–0 triumph over Benin Republic, featuring a spectacular hat-trick from Victor Osimhen. Gabon, meanwhile, finished second in Group F behind Ivory Coast to claim their playoff place.

The winner on Thursday will advance to face either Cameroon or the Democratic Republic of Congo on 16 November, with the victor earning a ticket to the inter-continental playoff stage and a chance at a World Cup spot.

Recent Form & Head-to-Head:
Nigeria and Gabon share a competitive history spanning six decades. Of their nine previous meetings, Nigeria has won five, with three draws and one Gabonese victory—a 2–1 shocker in June 1989 that denied Nigeria a place at Italia ’90. The Super Eagles are unbeaten in their last four qualifiers and have dominated recent encounters with Gabon, winning three and drawing once in the last four meetings.

Gabon, coached by Thierry Mouyouma, have impressed offensively, netting 22 goals in 10 qualifying matches. However, their record against Africa’s top sides is less encouraging, with four losses and one draw since Mouyouma took charge.

Key Players to Watch:

Victor Osimhen (Nigeria): The in-form Galatasaray striker is Nigeria’s main attacking threat. With 29 goals in 43 appearances, he is only eight goals shy of Rashidi Yekini’s all-time scoring record for the Super Eagles. His speed, movement, and finishing will be pivotal in Rabat.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon): The 36-year-old Olympique de Marseille forward remains a constant threat. He scored all four goals in Gabon’s thrilling 4–3 win over Gambia, keeping their World Cup dreams alive. His experience and goal-scoring ability make him Gabon’s player to watch.