CAF announce 'Key Regulations' for Nigeria vs. Gabon World Cup Playoffs

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially released the match regulations for the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash between Nigeria and Gabon, outlining the key procedures that will determine which nation advances in the knockout-style mini-tournament.

The single-leg encounter, set for Thursday, November 13, 2025, in Rabat, Morocco, will decide who moves on to face either Cameroon or DR Congo in the final on November 16. With only one slot available for Africa in the inter-confederation playoffs, CAF has moved to ensure a transparent and decisive outcome for the fixture.

According to CAF, if the match ends in a draw after regulation time, two periods of extra time, each lasting 15 minutes, will be played.

Should the scores remain level after extra time, the winner will be determined through a penalty shootout.

Each team will be permitted to make five substitutions during regular time and an additional substitution if the game extends into extra time.

CAF also confirmed that the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology will be in full use throughout the encounter to assist officials in reviewing critical incidents such as goals, penalties, red cards, and cases of mistaken identity.

The football body stated that the regulations are in line with international standards set by FIFA, ensuring fairness and consistency in one of Africa’s most important qualification stages.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face a tough challenge against the Panthers of Gabon, led by experienced striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, as both sides battle for a spot in the final, where they could meet either Cameroon or DR Congo.

The mini-tournament runs from November 13 to 16, 2025, with the overall winner progressing to the FIFA Intercontinental Playoff Tournament scheduled for March 2026.