Gabon’s national team coach, Thierry Mouyouma, has declared that his side is fully prepared to face Nigeria in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying play-offs.

The Super Eagles will battle the Panthers of Gabon in one of the semi-final fixtures of the African playoffs, scheduled to take place in Morocco next month.

The winner of the clash will proceed to face either Cameroon or DR Congo, who meet in the other playoff fixture.

Nigeria booked their spot in the playoffs after a convincing 4-0 victory over Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Tuesday, thanks to goals from Victor Osimhen and Frank Onyeka.

Meanwhile, Gabon narrowly missed out on automatic qualification despite a strong campaign — finishing with 25 points, securing eight wins, one draw, and just one defeat.

Speaking with Sporting News Africa, Coach Mouyouma expressed pride in his team’s performance and confidence ahead of the showdown with Nigeria.

“To get 25 points and not qualify is hard to take. We are ready. It will be a good match to play against Nigeria, and a good test for the 2025 AFCON,”
— Thierry Mouyouma, Gabon Head Coach.

The African playoffs for the four best second-placed teams will run from 13 to 16 November in Morocco, with only two nations securing tickets to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.