Without a doubt, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is the most popular player on the Gabonese squad. The former Arsenal striker played a significant role in helping Gabon qualify for the playoffs after they finished a point behind Côte d’Ivoire.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored seven goals in 10 matches, including four in the seven-goal thriller against Gambia on matchday nine of the qualification series. The 35-year-old striker needs no introduction, having played in Europe for a while.
However, the Panthers parade other threats in attack and midfield that can hurt the Super Eagles ahead of the crucial World Cup Playoffs in Rabat later this week. One of them scored eight goals during the qualifiers.
So, while Aubameyang will most likely lead the attack on November 13, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Wilfred Ndidi, Benjamin Fredricks, and the likes must be wary of three other players in the Panthers’ fold.
3 Gabon players that can destroy Super Eagles aside Aubameyang
1. Denis Bouanga
Denis Bouanga is one of the players the Super Eagles must keep a keen eye on. The 30-year-old forward operates predominantly from the left channel but can also debutise in the central area as well. Bouanga is fast, strong, skillful, and dangerous in the air as well. Bouanga scored eight goals and provided two assists in 10 matches for Gabon in the qualifiers.
2. Shavy Babicka
At 25, Shavy Babicka is a versatile forward/winger for Toulouse in Ligue 1. He is an emerging talent with blistering speed, technical skill, and a knack for unpredictable runs. Babicka has shown promise in creating scoring opportunities and chipping in with goals for Gabon, making him a wildcard who could thrive in transitional moments against the Super Eagles’ backline.
3. Mario Lemina
If there is any player Gabon will rely on to neutralise Osimhen, it will be Mario Lemina. Osimhen and Lemina play for Galatasaray in the Turkish Super League, and the defensive midfielder is expected to know a few information about the striker.
The 32-year-old defensive midfielder offers Premier League and international experience to anchor Gabon’s midfield. Lemina is known for his strong tackling, intelligent positioning, and accurate long-range passing. Mario Lemina can disrupt Nigeria’s build-up play while transitioning quickly to counterattacks. He also has an eye for goal with his occasional dash into the box to pounce on loose balls.
