World Cup Playoff: Probable Super Eagles Starting XI Versus Gabon

World Cup Playoff: Probable Super Eagles Starting XI Versus Gabon 

By Niyi Busari 

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are preparing for one of their most important fixtures in recent years as they face Gabon in the semifinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The decisive encounter will be played on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Nigerian time in Rabat, Morocco a neutral venue selected for this knockout tie.

After missing out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Nigeria enter this match determined to secure a path to the global stage once again. The Super Eagles advanced to this round following a resounding 4–0 victory over Benin Republic, with Victor Osimhen netting a hat-trick and Frank Onyeka adding a late goal to complete the rout.

However, head coach Eric Chelle faces a selection dilemma in defense, as Semi Ajayi will miss the match due to suspension after accumulating yellow cards. In Ajayi’s absence, Chelle is expected to reshuffle his back line but will continue to rely heavily on his formidable attacking trio of Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze to provide the cutting edge.

Training and Team Preparations

Preparations are in full swing at the team’s training base in Rabat, with 21 players invited to camp. As of Monday evening, 18 players, including captain William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Ademola Lookman, Tolu Arokodare, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali among others took part in their first full training session. Victor Osimhen and two additional players are expected to join the squad shortly.

The squad blends the experience of established internationals with the energy of younger stars emerging from Europe’s top leagues a balance Chelle hopes will prove decisive against Gabon.

Road Ahead

The winner of this one-legged semifinal will advance to face either Cameroon or DR Congo in the final round of the African playoffs. A place in the intercontinental playoff and potentially a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup awaits the victor of that tie.

Probable Nigeria Lineup vs. Gabon

Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali

Defenders: Benjamin Fredrick, Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Chidozie Awaziem

Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman

Wingers: Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon

Striker: Victor Osimhen

Chelle is expected to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Ndidi shielding the defense and Lookman and Iwobi orchestrating play behind Osimhen. The wide threats of Chukwueze and Simon will aim to stretch Gabon’s defense, providing service to the Napoli striker, whose recent form remains crucial to Nigeria’s hopes.