World Cup Playoffs: Gabon Coach Wary Of Osimhen, Lookman

World Cup Playoffs: Gabon Coach Wary Of Osimhen, Lookman

Sampson Adedeji

Gabon head coach Thierry Mouyouma has admitted that his team must be at their very best to contain the firepower of Nigeria’s attacking duo, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, ahead of their crucial FIFA World Cup playoff semi-final clash on Thursday in Morocco, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Panthers will square off against the Super Eagles in what promises to be a thrilling encounter as both nations aim to keep their World Cup dreams alive.

Speaking ahead of the match, Mouyouma acknowledged Nigeria’s pedigree and quality but maintained that Gabon are ready to compete fearlessly.

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

“Nigeria will be under more pressure, which is understandable. But while we respect them for everything they represent, we're not afraid of them. We know the quality of their squad and the dangers posed by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. And I think Nigeria knows us very well.”

The Gabonese coach emphasized that the journey to the World Cup remains long and demanding, but his side is prepared to take it one step at a time.

“We know that to qualify for the World Cup, we’ll have to beat the Super Eagles, then DR Congo or Cameroon, and one or two more teams in March. It’s a long road, and we knew that from the start,” he added.

“But these matches will help the team and the coaching staff improve. There’s a lot at stake, and emotionally, I’d rather we play matches like the one on November 13th, like those in the Africa Cup of Nations, than friendlies.”

Gabon will hope to cause an upset against the star-studded Nigerian side led by Osimhen and Lookman, while the Super Eagles aim to move a step closer to securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.