Nigeria’s quest for a 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket enters a decisive phase today as the Super Eagles face Gabon in the African World Cup Qualifying Play-off at the Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan in Rabat, Morocco, Soccernet.ng reports.
Ahead of the clash, Fulham trio Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze have urged their teammates to go all out and give Nigerians a performance worthy of the nation’s footballing pedigree.
Nigeria reached this playoff round after an emphatic 4–0 win over Benin Republic, restoring belief among fans after an uneven start to their qualification campaign.
A victory against Gabon would secure a spot in the final playoff round, where the Super Eagles would face either Cameroon or DR Congo for a place in the Inter-Confederation playoff next March.
Alex Iwobi, one of the team’s senior voices, highlighted the gravity of the moment, stressing that missing out on the World Cup would be unthinkable for a football powerhouse like Nigeria.
“Hopefully we will win and get the results we want because the World Cup is the biggest competition and it will be a shame if Nigeria don’t go so it’s only right that we give our best and try and ensure that Nigeria are there,” Iwobi told sports journalist Kelechi Anyikude.
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Super Eagles hope has been restored, says Bassey
Former Ajax defender Calvin Bassey echoed Iwobi’s rallying call, noting that the team’s journey to this stage had been challenging, but confidence had returned. Bassey is Nigeria’s most valuable defender and the only player to feature in every minute of the Super Eagles' ten qualifying games.
“We started off very slow but we’re here now. Hope has been restored, we just have to make sure we keep going. We are Nigeria, we are a massive nation, we know there’s a lot of expectation and responsibility. As players we just need to focus on what we need to do, go out to Morocco and make sure we get both wins,” Bassey said.
The atmosphere in the Nigerian camp is reportedly upbeat, with head coach Eric Chelle encouraging his players to approach the game with focus and intensity.
The squad blends experience and youth, with 2023 African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen leading the line alongside 2024 winner Ademola Lookman.
Behind them, Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi will look to dictate play from midfield, while Bassey and William Troost-Ekong anchor the defence.
Chukwueze calls for unity, fans’ support
For Samuel Chukwueze, unity within the camp and among fans could prove decisive in pushing the Super Eagles over the line. The winger appealed for togetherness at a time when criticism has trailed recent performances.
“This is the moment we needed, this is not the time to criticise anyone. This is the time we have to be together because everyone wants to be at the World Cup. Nigeria needs to be at the World Cup. We’re going to give our best, I promise them that,” Chukwueze stated.
Kick-off against Gabon is scheduled for 5 p.m. Nigerian time, before Cameroon meet DR Congo later in the evening at the Stade El Barid, also in Rabat.
Coach Chelle’s 24-man squad includes returning names such as Chidera Ejuke and goalkeeper Maduka Okoye. However, Ola Aina misses out due to injury, with Bright Osayi-Samuel expected to step in at right-back. Semi Ajayi’s suspension rules him out of the Gabon match, though he could feature in the next round if Nigeria progresses.
Chelle has opted against recalling Paul Onuachu and Victor Boniface, instead turning to Tolu Arokodare and Akor Adams for attacking depth.
