Gabon coach fires warning shot to Nigeria ahead of crunch tie

Gabon national team head coach Thierry Mouyouma has sent a stern warning to Nigeria ahead of their crucial clash in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs.

The two teams will square off in Rabat on Thursday, 13 November, with the winner set to face either Cameroon or the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final on Sunday.

With the clash looming, the 50-year-old mentor embraces the underdog tag, with Gabon's last victory over the three-time African champions dating back to June 1989.

“We know that Nigeria, a great African team, is the favorite and our underdog status suits us just fine,” Mouyouma told Afrik-Foot.

While Mouyouma accepts the underdog status, he fired a warning shot to the Super Eagles, stating that his charges are willing to give them a run for their money despite boasting a star-studded squad.

“Nigeria will be under more pressure, which is understandable. But while we respect them for everything they represent - we are not afraid of them,” he added.

"We know the quality of their squad, the dangers posed by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. And I think Nigeria knows us very well.

Meanwhile, the winner of the mini-tournament will represent CAF in the inter-confederation playoffs next year in March.

Hlayisani Magoro

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Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.

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