Nigeria and Gabon meet on Thursday evening in Rabat for a one-leg FIFA World Cup playoff semi-final that could shape Africa’s qualification race.
The Super Eagles have not featured at a World Cup since 2018 and enter this clash determined to take the next step towards a return to football’s biggest stage. Victory would move them into Sunday’s playoff final against either Cameroon or DR Congo, with the winner advancing to the inter-continental play-offs in March 2026.
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Played on neutral ground at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Morocco, the tie promises quality on both ends of the pitch. Nigeria arrive unbeaten in five matches, led by in-form striker Victor Osimhen, who scored a hat-trick in their 4-0 win over Benin. The Galatasaray forward’s sharp finishing remains central to José Peseiro’s attack.
Gabon, meanwhile, come into the semi-final unbeaten in four and buoyed by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s resurgence. The Marseille forward has scored four goals in his last three games, including a double in their 2-0 victory over Burundi.
History slightly favours Nigeria, Gabon are yet to beat the Super Eagles, who won 2-0 in their previous meeting. But with both sides showing strong attacking form, this contest is expected to be tightly fought from start to finish.
For a full statistical breakdown and value analysis, read the detailed Nigeria vs Gabon prediction on Africa Picks.
Photo: Philip Maeta/Gallo Images
