Gabon's national football team coach Thierry Mouyouma has sent shockwaves through African football circles by openly discussing his team's strategic approach to defeating Nigeria's Super Eagles in their crucial World Cup playoff encounter.
Panthers Confident Ahead of High-Stakes Clash
Despite Nigeria being labeled as favorites, Mouyouma expressed unwavering confidence in his team's ability to cause an upset when the two sides meet at the Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan on Thursday, November 13. The Gabonese coach emphasized that his squad carries no fear facing the star-studded Nigerian lineup.
"Nigeria will have more pressure, which makes sense. But if we respect this team for everything they represent, we don't fear it," Mouyouma declared in a recent interview with Afrik Foot. The coach believes Gabon's underdog status actually works to their advantage, with players showing exceptional motivation and focus.
Gabon's Impressive Form and Secret Weapon
The Panthers enter the playoff with remarkable offensive statistics, having scored an impressive 13 goals in their last five matches. This free-scoring form positions Gabon as a genuine threat to Nigeria's World Cup qualification hopes.
Mouyouma acknowledged the danger posed by Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen but revealed his team has prepared a disciplined yet aggressive approach to neutralize the Super Eagles' attacking threats. "The playoffs are a long journey. We knew it, but these games will advance the team and the technical staff," the coach added.
Building on Strong Qualifying Campaign
Gabon's confidence stems from their outstanding qualifying performance where they finished just one point behind group leaders Ivory Coast, accumulating 25 points from a possible 30. This impressive run demonstrates the Panthers' capability to compete at the highest level.
Mouyouma highlighted significant victories against Kenya, Burundi, and The Gambia, particularly noting the importance of their away performances. "I think we can be proud of our first round. Beating Kenya, Burundi, and the Gambia, especially away from home, is not insignificant," the coach stated.
The Gabon head coach views the Nigeria encounter as not only crucial for World Cup qualification but also as an important test ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The winner of this playoff will face either DR Congo or Cameroon in the final round of CAF playoffs, with the ultimate victor progressing to the Intercontinental playoffs in Mexico.
Meanwhile, Nigeria faces additional challenges as reports indicate Super Eagles players and staff have boycotted training in protest of unpaid allowances ahead of the crucial match. The Nigeria Football Federation allegedly owes players bonuses for several months, creating potential distraction for the Nigerian camp.
