Nigeria Versus Gabon: Preview, Head-Head, Lineups, Where To Watch, Prediction

Nigeria Versus Gabon: Preview, Head-Head, Lineups, Where To Watch, Prediction 

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria will look to sustain their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they face Gabon in the semi-final of the CAF playoff series on Thursday evening in Rabat, Morocco, BSNSporta.com.ng reports.

The Super Eagles, led by star striker Victor Osimhen, head into the clash buoyed by a 4–0 win over Benin that secured them second place in their group and a spot in the playoffs. After an inconsistent qualifying campaign, Nigeria now have an opportunity to move one step closer to the World Cup by reaching Sunday’s playoff final, where they would meet either Cameroon or DR Congo.

Failure to qualify would mark a historic low for the three-time African champions, who risk missing consecutive World Cups for the first time since their debut appearance in 1994 a scenario that could also place coach Eric Chelle’s job under scrutiny.

Despite being favourites, Nigeria will face a stern challenge from a Gabon side captained by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The Panthers finished just a point behind Ivory Coast in qualifying and arrive in Rabat unbeaten in their last seven matches, giving them confidence of pulling off an upset.

Form and Head-to-Head

Nigeria are unbeaten in their last six games across all competitions, showing renewed confidence at a crucial time. Historically, the Super Eagles have dominated this fixture, winning five of nine previous encounters. Gabon have managed just one victory, while three meetings ended in draws. Their most recent clash came in 2002, when Nigeria triumphed 2–0 in a World Cup qualifier.

Recent Results

Nigeria – Last Five Matches

Nigeria 4–0 Benin

Lesotho 1–2 Nigeria

South Africa 1–1 Nigeria

Nigeria 1–0 Rwanda

Nigeria 2–0 Congo

Gabon – Last Five Matches

Gabon 2–0 Burundi

Gambia 3–4 Gabon

Gabon 0–0 Ivory Coast

Seychelles 0–4 Gabon

Gabon 2–0 Guinea-Bissau

Predicted Lineups

Nigeria (4-4-2): Nwabali (GK);

Defenders:

Frederick, Ekong, Bassey, Onyemaechi;

Midfielders:

 Ndidi, Iwobi, 

Wingers:

Simon; Chukwueze

Attackers:

Osimhen, Lookman.

Gabon (4-2-3-1): Mbaba (GK); 

Defenders 

Onfia, M’bemba, Manga, Lemina;

Midfielders :

Kanga, Ndong; Averlant, Obiang,

Attackers:

 Bouanga, Aubameyang.

Team News

Nigeria returned to training on Wednesday after a brief standoff on Tuesday. Eric Chelle has a fully fit squad available, although Semi Ajayi may be rested to avoid suspension ahead of a potential final. Ademola Lookman returns from suspension and is expected to partner Osimhen in attack.

For Gabon, Aubameyang remains their talisman, but the visitors will be without several key players, including Jim Allevinah, Shavy Babicka, Medwin Biteghe, Michel Mboula, and Junior Noubi Fotso due to injuries.

Prediction

Nigeria’s attacking depth and Osimhen’s form should tilt the balance in their favour. The Napoli forward, who netted a hat-trick against Benin, is expected to lead the charge once again. Gabon’s resilience could make for a competitive contest, but the Super Eagles are tipped to prevail.

Prediction: Nigeria 3–1 Gabon

Match Details

Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025

Venue: Moulay El Hassan Stadium, Rabat, Morocco

Time: 4:00 p.m. local time

TV/Stream: FIFA+

What’s at Stake

Nigeria, Gabon, Cameroon, and DR Congo are contesting a mini-tournament in Morocco to determine who advances to the intercontinental playoff round. The two semi-finals will be played on November 13, followed by the final on November 16.

Only the winner of the final will earn a shot at qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup through the intercontinental playoffs.