By Sport Analyst
Emmanuel Afonja
Gabon’s national team coach, Thierry Mouyouma, has declared that the Panthers are fully prepared to face Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the high-stakes African playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Central African side narrowly missed out on direct qualification despite a strong campaign in the group stage. Gabon secured eight wins, one draw, and just one loss, finishing with 25 points — only a point behind Group F leaders Côte d’Ivoire. That slim margin denied them an automatic ticket to the World Cup.
Speaking to Sport News Africa, Mouyouma admitted the disappointment of falling short despite such an outstanding record. “To get 25 points and not qualify is hard to take,” he said. “But we are now focused on the play-offs. We are ready. It will be a good match against Nigeria, and also a good test as we prepare for the 2025 AFCON.”
Nigeria, who ended their group campaign in second place behind South Africa, must now also go through the play-off route. The Super Eagles are aiming to return to the World Cup after missing out in 2022.
The African playoffs will take place in Morocco between November 13 and 16. Gabon will take on Nigeria, while Cameroon face DR Congo. Winners of these encounters will move on to the intercontinental play-offs scheduled for March 2026 in Mexico.
