Gabon's head coach, Thierry Mouyouma, has provided a candid explanation for his team's heavy 4-1 defeat against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff semifinal clash. The match, which took place on Thursday night, saw Nigeria score three decisive goals in extra time to secure their place in the final round of the African qualifiers.
Mouyouma's Frank Assessment of the Defeat
Visibly frustrated after the match, Coach Mouyouma did not mince words. He pinpointed decisive errors in both penalty areas as the primary reason for Gabon's embarrassing exit from the tournament. "We were not good enough in the opposite box, and we didn't defend well in our own box," Mouyouma stated, acknowledging Nigeria's superior efficiency. He added that while the final scoreline was harsh, the game was ultimately decided by small margins, with Nigeria capitalizing on their critical moments.
How the Super Eagles Sealed Victory in Rabat
The highly anticipated semifinal was a tightly contested affair for the first 90 minutes. The deadlock was broken in the 78th minute when Akor Adams capitalized on a defensive blunder from Gabon, pouncing on a poor back-pass to give Nigeria the lead.
Just as it seemed Nigeria would see out the win, Gabon's Mario Lemina scored a deflected equalizer in the 89th minute, sending the match into an additional 30 minutes. However, the Super Eagles demonstrated their class and stamina in extra time.
Chidera Ejuke restored Nigeria's lead just seven minutes into the first period of extra time. From there, star striker Victor Osimhen took command, scoring two quick-fire goals in the 102nd minute and the 110th minute to put the result beyond any doubt and seal a resounding 4-1 victory for the three-time African champions.
Aftermath and Next Steps for Both Teams
The defeat marks a painful end to Gabon's dream of reaching the intercontinental playoff stage. Coach Mouyouma, however, insisted that the experience would be a learning opportunity for his squad as they look ahead to future competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
For Nigeria, the victory under coach Eric Chelle is another significant milestone. The Malian tactician remains unbeaten since taking charge, successfully steadying the Super Eagles' previously shaky qualification campaign.
The team now advances to the playoff final, where they will face DR Congo, who edged past Cameroon 1-0 in the other semifinal. A win in that final is crucial, as it would secure Nigeria a spot in the six-team intercontinental playoff in March 2026, where the last two tickets to the FIFA World Cup will be decided.
