Former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peterside Idah, has voiced strong confidence that Nigeria will triumph over Gabon in Thursday’s 2026 World Cup play-off clash.
The crucial encounter between Nigeria and Gabon is set to take place at the Stade Prince Héritier Moulay Hassan in Rabat at 17:00 (local time).
Speaking on Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday, Peterside said the Super Eagles hold a clear advantage over the Panthers despite recent tensions over unpaid bonuses.
“Naturally, we should win. In the past 41 years, Gabon have beaten us only once — so we have the upper hand. And we are Nigerians,” said Peterside, who once played for Enugu Rangers.
“I’ve always said I’m proud to be from this great country. We’re full of potential; we have everything it takes to succeed. It’s just the management that’s the problem. We should beat Gabon, and I believe we will,” he added.
Now a pastor, Peterside also expressed his eagerness to see the Super Eagles qualify for the World Cup.
“I want Nigeria to qualify. My passport is ready — I’m set to travel to the Americas for the World Cup,” he said.
On Wednesday, Eric Chelle’s men ended a long-running financial dispute with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), which had earlier caused them to boycott training on Tuesday in protest over unpaid allowances.
“Issues resolved. Super Eagles to train at 5 pm,” confirmed team official Efoghe in a message to journalists.
Team captain William Troost-Ekong later confirmed the development on X, writing, “Issue RESOLVED. Outstanding financials cleared and on the ground. Team is UNITED and focused as before on representing NIGERIA with our maximum for the games ahead!”
Despite the resolution, Peterside criticised the NFF for letting the situation escalate, stressing that the welfare of players should always come first.
“I’ve come to understand that the NFF, or those running our football, have failed to realise that football is about the players — not the management or the NFF president,” he said.
“If the players aren’t happy or things are not in order, they won’t perform. It affects everyone who supports them.”
He described the entire episode as “unfortunate,” noting that the payment dispute came as a “surprise.”
