On Thursday, November 13, 2025, Nigeria’s Super Eagles take on Gabon’s Panthers in Rabat, Morocco, for a spot in the CAF playoff final. The winner moves closer to the 2026 FIFA World Cup inter-confederation stage.
Nigeria earned their semi-final berth as one of Africa’s strongest second-place teams, capped by a stunning 4-0 rout of Benin Republic. Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick lit up that match. Gabon punched their ticket by holding second in Group F, trailing only Ivory Coast.
The Thursday victor faces the Cameroon vs. DR Congo winner on November 16. That final’s champion heads to March 2026’s global playoffs for a World Cup shot.
Head-to-Head Legacy
These rivals have clashed for 60 years. Nigeria leads with five wins, three draws, and one loss in nine meetings. Gabon’s lone triumph—a 2-1 shocker in June 1989—cost Nigeria an Italia ’90 berth.
Nigeria rides a four-game unbeaten streak in qualifiers. Against Gabon lately, they’ve claimed three wins and one draw.
Gabon, led by Thierry Mouyouma, fired in 22 goals across 10 qualifiers. Yet, they struggle versus Africa’s powerhouses four losses and one draw since Mouyouma’s arrival.
Stars to Spotlight
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria): The Napoli forward’s red-hot form makes him indispensable. With 29 goals in 43 caps, he’s eight shy of Rashidi Yekini’s record. His speed, positioning, and ruthlessness could unlock Gabon’s backline in Rabat’s rain.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon): At 36, the Marseille veteran still dazzles. He bagged all four in Gabon’s 4-3 thriller over Gambia. His smarts and scoring touch demand Nigeria’s tight marking.
Tactical Edges
Nigeria thrives on midfield control, quick flanks, and defensive grit. Efficiency up top seals deals. Gabon packs punch but leaks goals against elites.
No home soil for either Morocco hosts all. Weather? Pouring rain could slick the pitch, favoring Nigeria’s technical edge.
Stakes and Setup
A win catapults Nigeria to the final, one step from World Cup dreams. Gabon eyes an upset to extend their run.
Kickoff: 5:00 p.m. local (10:00 p.m. WAT). Watch on SuperSport, NTA, or CAF streams.
Who advances? Eagles soar or Panthers pounce? Predict below!
