The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face Gabon in a high-stakes African World Cup playoff semi-final on Thursday, November 13, 2025. This crucial encounter, rekindling a rivalry that spans over six decades, will take place at the Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan in Rabat, Morocco, with kick-off scheduled for 16:00 GMT (17:00 West Africa Time). With the match following a single-leg format, there are no second chances; the winner advances to the final of the African playoffs to face the victor of the Cameroon vs. DR Congo clash. A subsequent win there guarantees a spot in the inter-continental playoffs in March 2026, while a loss immediately ends World Cup aspirations.

Historically, Nigeria holds a distinct advantage over Gabon, boasting a head-to-head record of five wins, three draws, and only one defeat across nine encounters. This dominance dates back to the 1960s, including a 4-1 victory in a 1965 friendly. Notable competitive wins include a narrow 1-0 triumph in a 1989 World Cup qualifier and a commanding 3-0 victory at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations. Gabon’s lone success came in a 2-1 return leg qualifier in 1989, but the Super Eagles are acutely aware of Gabon’s recent consistency and will approach this match without complacency.

All eyes will be on three pivotal players expected to significantly influence the outcome. For Nigeria, 26-year-old striker Victor Osimhen carries the nation’s hopes. He was instrumental in securing Nigeria’s playoff spot, scoring six goals in the qualifiers, including a match-winning hat-trick against Benin Republic. Coming off a strong season with Galatasaray, where he netted nine goals in 12 appearances, Osimhen’s blistering pace, aerial dominance, and relentless pressure will pose a major challenge to Gabon’s defense. Anchoring the Super Eagles’ midfield is Alex Iwobi, the Fulham star, who is set to earn his 90th senior cap. Iwobi’s ability to dictate tempo, switch play, link midfield and attack, and provide defensive cover will be crucial under coach Eric Chelle.

Gabon’s veteran threat comes in the form of 36-year-old Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The former Arsenal captain remains as sharp and deadly as ever, having scored all four of Gabon’s goals in their group stage qualifiers. His resurgence at Marseille, contributing 10 goals and assists in 14 appearances, highlights his enduring clinical edge and ability to finish from any angle, making him a constant danger to Nigeria’s backline.

Preparations for the Super Eagles were not without drama. A pay dispute led to a boycott of Tuesday’s training session by the William Troost-Ekong-led squad, sparking widespread concern among fans, who feared a repeat of past disappointments, including losses to Denmark at France ’98 and France at Brazil 2014. Super Eagles legend John Mikel Obi warned against distractions, urging the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to resolve financial issues promptly.

However, the NFF leadership, headed by President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, publicly exuded confidence after the resolution of the dispute. Training resumed on Wednesday evening at the Institut Royal de Formation Des Cadres in Sale, with players reportedly in high spirits and morale restored. Gusau stated: “We believe in the players and their ability to make Nigeria proud, not only on Thursday, but throughout these playoffs. We have a team capable of earning a World Cup ticket,” aiming to reassure fans and reinforce unity ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign.