Gabon head coach Thierry Mouyouma has declared the Super Eagles of Nigeria the favourites as both nations gear up to square in their World Cup play-offs semi-final clash at the Prince Heritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat on Thursday, Footynaija.com reports.
Mouyouma’s Gabon head into this encounter 36 places below the Super Eagles on the latest FIFA rankings and the Panthers’ boss is under no illusions about the difference in stature between both teams.
Despite the daunting task ahead, Mouyouma expressed confidence in Gabon’s ability to upset the Super Eagles on Thursday, maintaining that The Panthers will approach the clash without any fear for their illustrious opponents.
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“We know that Nigeria, a great African nation, are the favourites, and our status as an outsider suits us very well,” Mouyouma said in an interview with Afrik Foot.
“Nigeria will have more pressure, which makes sense. But if we respect this team for everything they represent, we don’t fear it.
“We know the value of its workforce, the dangers that are Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. And I think Nigeria knows us very well.
“We know that to play in the World Cup, you will have to beat the Super Eagles, then DR Congo or Cameroon, and one or two teams in March.
“It is a long journey. We knew it, but these games will advance the team and the technical staff.
“There are big stakes, and emotionally, I prefer that we play games like the one on November 13, like those of the AFCON, than friendly matches.”
Given Gabon’s impressive qualification campaign record of eight wins, one draw and one defeat, Mouyouma’s confidence is not misplaced. The possibility of a first ever World Cup appearance could also potentially serve as extra motivation for The Panthers.
