Nigeria vs Gabon Match Preview: Super Eagles Target World Cup Playoffs Final Spot in Rabat
Nigeria’s Super Eagles will face Gabon in the 2025 FIFA World Cup qualification playoff semifinal on Thursday, 13 November, at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. The match promises to be an intense battle, as both teams fight for a place in the final round of the African playoffs.
The winner of this clash will meet either Cameroon or DR Congo in the playoff final, with the overall winner representing Africa at the FIFA Intercontinental Playoff in Mexico next March.
Head-to-Head Record
Nigeria hold a dominant record against Gabon, winning five of their nine meetings, drawing three and losing just once. Their past encounters include a 4-1 victory in a 1965 friendly, a 1-0 win in the 1989 World Cup qualifier, a 3-0 triumph at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations, and a 2-0 win during the 2005 World Cup qualifiers.
Team News and Form
The Super Eagles reached the playoff stage after a convincing performance against Benin Republic and will look to maintain that momentum. Midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has assured fans that the team will respect every opponent and remain focused on securing qualification.
Head coach Eric Chelle is expected to rely on Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen to lead the attack, supported by Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon on the wings. The midfield trio of Ndidi, Alex Iwobi and Raphael Onyedika could be key in dictating the tempo.
For Gabon, coach Thierry Mouyouma has hinted that his team will aim to control the game through the midfield and take their chances efficiently. Veteran forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will be the main threat for the Panthers.
What They Said
“We respect every opponent. Our focus is on preparation, good recovery, and executing our game plan. If we do that, our quality will shine through,” said Ndidi ahead of the match.
Mouyouma, on his part, believes Gabon can spring a surprise. “We will approach the Super Eagles with confidence and control the game. We only need a 1-0 win to progress,” he stated.
Prediction
On paper, Nigeria have the stronger squad, with several players in top form across Europe. Gabon’s experience and discipline may test them, but the Super Eagles’ attacking depth and energy should make the difference.
Predicted Score: Nigeria 2-0 Gabon
Nigeria are favourites to advance to the final, but they will need to stay disciplined and make their chances count against a determined Gabonese side.
