AFCON 2025
Gabon head coach Thierry Mouyouma has expressed strong optimism ahead of a projected semi-final clash against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs, scheduled for next month in Morocco.
Pending the official confirmation of the FIFA rankings next Thursday, the Panthers are set to face the Super Eagles. The winner of that single-leg tie will advance to meet the victor of the other semi-final between Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Gabon enjoyed a remarkably strong qualifying campaign, recording eight wins, one draw, and one defeat to amass 25 points—a tally bettered only by automatic qualifiers Egypt, Ivory Coast, and Tunisia.
This impressive form means they will not be underestimated by Nigeria, who secured their playoff berth with a commanding 4–0 win over Benin, driven by a Victor Osimhen hat-trick.
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For the crucial tournament, Mouyouma will be boosted by the return of star forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who missed Gabon’s last match due to suspension.
Thierry Mouyouma highlighted his team’s disappointment at missing direct qualification, but affirmed their readiness:
“To get 25 points and not qualify is hard to take. We are ready. It will be a good match to play (against Nigeria), and a good test for the 2025 Afcon,” Mouyouma told Sporting News Africa.
The African playoffs for the four best second-placed teams will be held from November 13 to 16 in Morocco, with the overall winner progressing to the intercontinental playoffs for a chance at the 2026 World Cup.
