Mikel Obi has warned the Super Eagles not to underestimate Gabon ahead of Thursday’s World Cup playoff in Rabat, stressing that treating the Panthers lightly could end Nigeria’s campaign before it really begins, Footynaija.com reports.
The former Chelsea midfielder urged his compatriots to approach the match as if it were the last game they would ever play. Nigeria’s winner against Gabon will advance to face either Cameroon or DR Congo in Sunday’s playoff final, with the victorious side earning the chance to compete in the inter-continental playoff for a 2026 World Cup spot.
Coach Eric Chelle has named a 24-man squad for the tie, mixing experienced leaders like captain William Troost-Ekong and strike weapon Victor Osimhen with emerging talents ready to make their mark.
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Gabon, meanwhile, arrive in Morocco with a focused and alert mindset. Captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leads the team, supported by Denis Bouanga and Mario Lemina, while young players such as Royce Openda add fresh energy.
Coach Thierry Mouyouma has hinted at tactical changes, signalling the Panthers will be disciplined, compact, and ready to exploit spaces on the break.
Reports from Gabon’s camp describe confidence, tactical alertness, and a determination to make history with a first-ever World Cup appearance.
What Mikel Obi said
“Go into that game and play like this is the last game you will ever play in your life,” Mikel Obi said on his podcast, as reported by Daily Post.
“Win that game and then we can think about either Cameroon or someone else. The mistake we are going to make is to think it’s just Gabon, then we are done completely.”
While the Super Eagles have superior firepower on paper, Gabon’s organised approach and motivated squad could punish any lapse in focus.
Chelle will need his players to match intensity with intelligence, ensuring that experience and youthful energy combine effectively under high-pressure conditions.
