The Super Eagles of Nigeria are on the brink of a pivotal moment in their quest for a 2026 FIFA World Cup berth, as they prepare to face Gabon in a decisive playoff semi-final on November 13 at the Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat. Head coach Eric Chelle is navigating a challenging period, with his squad selection significantly impacted by a wave of injuries, fitness concerns, and a key suspension, casting a shadow over the team's preparations.

Multiple key players are confirmed to be unavailable or are major doubts for this crucial encounter. Nice forward Terem Moffi has been ruled out due to a calf injury, while Werder Bremen's Felix Agu is sidelined after ankle surgery. Panathinaikos striker Cyriel Dessers will miss the tie with an ankle injury, having already missed his club’s last six games. Defender Igoh Ogbu is also out with a hamstring injury, further thinning Nigeria's defensive options. Adding to Chelle's woes, Nottingham Forest's Ola Aina remains a significant doubt, still recovering from a hamstring issue with a potential return not until late December. Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru is also managing a hamstring concern, having only resumed light training. Furthermore, Hull City defender Semi Ajayi is suspended for the first leg due to accumulated yellow cards, though he may still be named in the squad for potential later fixtures.

Despite these considerable setbacks, Eric Chelle is expected to field a strong, albeit adjusted, squad. The goalkeeping department is likely to feature the familiar trio of Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye (who has returned to Udinese's starting XI), and Amas Obasogie. In defense, Calvin Bassey and William Troost-Ekong are set to anchor the unit, with Zaidu Sanusi expected to return on the left. Reports suggest a potential first call-up for German-born centre-back Moritz Jenz following a strong Bundesliga campaign. Bruno Onyemaechi, Chidozie Awaziem, and Benjamin Frederick are also anticipated to make a return to the squad. The midfield will likely be marshaled by Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi, supported by reliable options like Frank Onyeka and Club Brugge’s Raphael Onyedika. There are whispers of a potential first call-up for Ebenezer Akinsanmiro after impressive performances for Pisa SC. In attack, Victor Osimhen is expected to lead the line despite recent fitness management at his club, alongside Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon out wide. Samuel Chukwueze, despite an earlier hamstring complaint, is likely to be named if cleared by medical staff. With Moffi and Dessers out, striking depth may come from players like Akor Adams and Tolu Arokodare.

A compelling debate has emerged regarding Nigeria's most important player for this playoff. Former Super Eagles defender Efe Ambrose asserts that Calvin Bassey, rather than Victor Osimhen, will be the team's most crucial asset. Ambrose highlights Bassey's consistent defensive leadership, noting his involvement in every minute of Nigeria’s ten qualifying matches and his crucial equalizer against South Africa. He emphasizes that in a 'cup tournament' format like the playoffs, defenders are often more vital than forwards. While Bassey's defensive intelligence, pace, and positional discipline are praised, Osimhen's offensive prowess remains undeniable. The Galatasaray striker was Nigeria’s top scorer in the qualifiers with six goals, including a hat-trick against Benin Republic, and has surpassed Super Eagles legend Segun Odegbami on the all-time scorers list, proving his firepower is indispensable.

Gabon, coached by Thierry Mouyouma, presents a formidable challenge. Their squad, expected to be unveiled on November 6, will likely include star players such as former Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who captains the team. MLS star Denis Bouanga, known for his goal-scoring spree for LA FC, will also be a key figure. The Lemina brothers, Mario (of Galatasaray) and Noha (of Yverdon), are also expected to feature, adding strength to Gabon’s lineup. The Panthers are highly motivated, pushing for their first-ever World Cup ticket, promising a thrilling and intense encounter.

The Super Eagles' clash with Gabon is scheduled for November 13. The winner of this semi-final will advance to face the victor of the match between DR Congo and Cameroon, three days later at the same stadium, to secure Africa’s coveted slot in the intercontinental playoffs. Nigeria, with a theoretically stronger squad on paper, faces immense pressure to perform despite the personnel challenges, as they aim to overcome a physical Gabon side and move one step closer to the World Cup finals.