Nigeria and Gabon face-off in the CAF playoff semifinal round on Thursday at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Morocco, with the winner of the tie going ahead to face the winner of the other semifinal tie between Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final next Sunday.
The Super Eagles missed out on qualification for the 2022 edition at the playoff phase to Ghana, and could be set for a return next year if they can navigate the qualifying process.
Their chances of qualifying looked over following a poor start, but a three-point deduction to South Africa in September had revived their hopes. The three-time African champions then recorded four wins in their last six group games, including a 4-0 thrashing of Benin Republic in their final game to secure their spot as one of the best-ranked runners-up.
In this article, we look at five players who could turn the tide in favour of the Super Eagles.
Nigeria vs Gabon Prediction and Betting Tips: Super Eagles must win World Cup qualifier
Victor Osimhen
Victor Osimhen proved his status as Nigeria’s best player with a remarkable treble in the win over Benin Republic that sealed their spot in this playoff round.
The Galatasaray striker will be eager to make a mark in this clash and will be a handful for the Gabon defence with his pace and aerial prowess.
Osimhen will also be aiming to edge closer to Rashidi Yekini’s all-time Nigeria scoring record with a goal in the match.
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Benjamin Fredrick
Young centre-back Benjamin Fredrick has been a revelation since he made his competitive debut in September and will be eyeing another inspiring role as he hopes to guide Nigeria to victory.
The defender has established himself as a regular in the XI, and his battle to shut down Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Denis Bouanga will be one of the standout duels.
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Samuel Chukwueze
Fulham star Samuel Chukwueze capped his return to the starting line up with two assists for Victor Osimhen in the win over Benin Republic.
The 26-year-old only started in the absence of reigning African footballer of the year Ademola Lookman, but has given head coach Eric Chelle a major selection issue ahead of the Gabon clash.
Trust the winger to dazzle and impress if given the chance in the crucial encounter.
Matchday in Rabat!
🆚 Gabon 🇬🇦
🕔 5:00pm (NGA)
🏟️ Moulay Hassan Stadium#fifaworldcup2026qualifiers #Naija4TheWin #NGAGAB pic.twitter.com/48ocYr56eX— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) November 13, 2025
Maduka Okoye
Maduka Okoye earned a recall to the squad after returning from a betting suspension.
The Udinese goalkeeper was previously first choice, but lost his spot to Stanley Nwabali ahead of the 2024 African Cup of Nations.
However, with Nwabali displaying some shaky moments in Nigeria’s last two matches, Okoye may be considered for a starting role in goal for the Super Eagles.
24 players are out training at the Institut Royal de Formation des Cadres in Rabat this evening.#SoarSuperEagles #NGAGAB #FIFAWCQ pic.twitter.com/53DvDZZ58r
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) November 12, 2025
Alex Iwobi
Alex Iwobi impressed greatly in the win over Benin Republic after previously facing criticism for uninspiring displays in the colours of the Nigerian national team.
The Fulham playmaker will be expected to play a major role in creating chances for the attackers in the must-win clash against Gabon.
