Gabon head coach Thierry Mouyouma is looking forward to testing his side against the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the upcoming CAF World Cup play-offs set to take place in Morocco, Footynaija.com reports.
The Panthers were one of the standout teams in the qualifiers, registering eight wins, one draw and just one defeat to finish with an impressive haul of 25 points out of a possible 30.
In most groups, that tally would have guaranteed direct qualification, but in Group F, it was only enough for second place with reigning African champions Cote d’Ivoire just edging Gabon by a single point.
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Reflecting on his team’s near miss, Mouyouma admitted it was difficult to accept, given their remarkable consistency throughout the campaign. “To get 25 points and not qualify is hard to take,” he told Sporting News Africa.
Playing against Nigeria will be a good test
Despite the disappointment, the Gabonese boss remains optimistic and focused on the task ahead. “We are ready. It will be a good match to play against Nigeria and a good test for the 2025 AFCON,” Mouyouma added.
Gabon’s strong form means they will pose a serious threat to Nigeria, who finished second in Group C behind South Africa.
The Super Eagles secured their play-off place with a dominant 4–0 victory over Benin, powered by a Victor Osimhen hat-trick and a late flourish that revitalized their World Cup hopes.
Mouyouma will also welcome back star forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who missed their last qualifier against Burundi due to suspension. His availability is a major boost as Gabon aim to outclass a Nigerian side that boasts some of Africa’s finest talents.
The CAF World Cup play-offs are scheduled for November 13–16 in Morocco, with Nigeria facing Gabon and Cameroon taking on DR Congo before the winners of both ties clash in the final.
The overall winner of the CAF World Cup play-offs will advance to the inter-confederation play-offs in Mexico slated for March 2026.
