Gabon head coach Thierry Mouyouma says his team will face Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs with confidence and without fear.
While admitting that Nigeria are favourites to win the semi-final clash, Mouyouma insisted the pressure will be on the three-time African champions to deliver.
“We know that Nigeria, a great African nation, are the favourites, and our status as outsiders suits us very well,” Mouyouma said. “Nigeria will have more pressure, which makes sense. But while we respect this team for everything they represent, we do not fear them.”
Acknowledging the strength of the Super Eagles, he added: “We know the quality of their squad and the threats posed by players like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. And I believe Nigeria also knows us well.”
Mouyouma further noted that Gabon’s path to the World Cup will not be easy. “To qualify, we’ll need to beat Nigeria, then DR Congo or Cameroon, and possibly one or two more teams in March. It’s a long journey, but these matches will help our team grow.”
He concluded by stressing the significance of the clash: “There’s a lot at stake, and emotionally, I prefer matches like the one on November 13 — competitive ones that matter — rather than friendlies.”
Gabon will face the Super Eagles on Thursday at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat, Morocco.
