Gabon head coach Thierry Mouyouma has unveiled a 27-man squad for their crucial CAF World Cup playoff encounter against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Soccernet.ng reports.
The match is slated to be played on Thursday, November 13, at the Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan in Rabat, Morocco.
Gabon’s selection features an experienced blend of veterans and emerging stars, headlined by captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who remains the nation’s all-time top scorer with 39 goals in 83 appearances. The 36-year-old striker, formerly of Arsenal, Chelsea, and Barcelona, is expected to lead the Panthers’ attack as they chase a first-ever World Cup qualification.
Mouyouma’s list also includes Mario Lemina, the combative midfielder who plays alongside Victor Osimhen at Galatasaray, as well as Denis Bouanga, whose dazzling club form has made him one of Gabon’s most reliable goal threats.
Youngsters Jonathan Do Marcolino and Royce Openda of Bordeaux earned their first international call-ups, while Alex Moucketou-Moussounda returns to bolster the defence after missing recent fixtures.
The inclusion of several fresh faces signals Mouyouma’s intent to balance experience with energy ahead of a decisive test against one of Africa’s heavyweights.
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Gabon eye historic qualification against star-studded Super Eagles
Gabon’s road to this stage has been built on consistency and confidence. They finished their qualifying series impressively, amassing 25 points from 10 matches, scoring 22 goals and conceding just nine.
The winner of the tie between Gabon and Nigeria will advance to the final round of the CAF playoffs, where they will face either Cameroon or DR Congo for a ticket to the Inter-confederation playoffs — and possibly a dream debut at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
At press time, Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle had yet to unveil his squad for the encounter. However, key regulars such as William Troost-Ekong, Victor Osimhen, Calvin Bassey, Wilfred Ndidi, Moses Simon, and Ademola Lookman are expected to headline the list.
There is also growing anticipation around a possible recall for Paul Onuachu, whose prolific form for Trabzonspor in Turkey has reignited his international prospects. Emerging forwards Akor Adams and Tolu Arokodare could also be in contention, alongside Benjamin Fredrick and Semi Ajayi, who remain vital defensive options.
Gabon's Full Squad
- Goalkeepers: Mbaba Loyce Marius, Bekale Francois Junior, Mounguenou Mabbyalas Lukas.
- Defenders: Oyono Antony, Oyono Jérémy, Obiang Johann, Ekomie Jacques, Appindangoye A., Ecuele Manga Bruno, M’Bemba Yannis, Moucketou Alex, Kila Onfia Mick, Do Marcolino Jonathan.
- Midfielders: Lemina Mario, Lemina Noha, Nze Samake, Kanga Guelor, Ndong Ibrahim Didier, Poko B. André.
- Forwards: Averlant Andami Teddy, Bouanga Denis, Meyo Ngoua Bryan Enzo, Openda Royce, Do Marcolino Alan, Essang-Matouti Edlin Randy, Aubameyang Pierre-Emerick
