The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has released an official statement confirming the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff match between Nigeria's Super Eagles and Gabon's Panthers. The decisive encounter is scheduled for today, Thursday, November 13, 2025, at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
High-Stakes Encounter for World Cup Dreams
This semi-final playoff is a must-win for both nations, with the victor earning the right to tackle either DR Congo or Cameroon in the final round just three days later. That final match will determine which African team advances to the Intercontinental playoff for a chance to qualify for the 2026 Mundial, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
For three-time AFCON champions Nigeria, this match represents a critical opportunity to return to the World Cup stage after missing the 2022 edition in Qatar. Meanwhile, the Central African nation of Gabon is aiming to make history by qualifying for their first-ever World Cup tournament.
Road to the Rabat Playoff
The paths that led both teams to this playoff clash were markedly different. The Super Eagles struggled throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, producing a series of unimpressive results. Under the guidance of coach Eric Chelle, the team found some stability but ultimately finished second in Group C behind South Africa with 17 points.
Nigeria secured their playoff spot thanks to a decisive 4-0 victory against Benin Republic, featuring a hat-trick from star striker Victor Osimhen and a stoppage-time goal from Brentford's Frank Onyeka. This result allowed them to overtake Burkina Faso, who had finished with 21 points.
In contrast, Gabon enjoyed an impressive qualification campaign in Group F, amassing 25 points. The Panthers' only setbacks were a narrow 1-0 away loss to the 2023 AFCON winners, Ivory Coast, and a home draw against the same opponents, securing eight wins overall.
Team Preparations and Fan Reactions
Ahead of the crucial match, Super Eagles' preparations were disrupted by a training boycott from players protesting unpaid allowances. A top NFF official revealed that coach Eric Chelle had intended to retain most of the squad that featured in the final World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic, with the only change being Bright Osayi-Samuel replacing the suspended Semi Ajayi.
CAF's social media post announcing the match generated significant reactions from fans. One user highlighted the exciting striker matchup, noting, "Two of the most in-form strikers in Europe right now going head to head. It's anyone's game to win." Another user expressed concerns about the impact of the bonus dispute on the Nigerian team, while others wished luck to all competing nations.
The stage is now set for what promises to be a thrilling encounter between two African nations with everything to play for, as they chase their World Cup dreams in Rabat.
