World Cup Playoffs: Gabon coach reveals plan to stop Osimhen, Lookman and Chelle's tactics

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoff, the coach of Gabon’s national team, the Panthers, Thierry Mouyouma, outlined his strategy to neutralise the Super Eagles' potent attacks led by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.

Mouyouma said this while unveiling a formidable 27-man squad ahead of their highly anticipated showdown against Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

The list features an impressive mix of experience and youthful energy as Gabon aim to secure a spot in the next stage of the qualifiers.

The first-leg encounter is scheduled for Thursday, November 13, 2025, at the C.S. Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. The winner of the tie will go on to face the victor of the Cameroon vs DR Congo playoff in the next round.

Speaking to the Gabonese Press Agency, Thierry Mouyouma emphasised that his team must adjust their tactics to match the strength and pace of the Super Eagles.

“We will have to change things against Nigeria, particularly on a tactical and even technical level,” he said.

Known for his preference for possession-based football, Mouyouma stressed that controlling the rhythm of the game would be key if Gabon are to overcome a Nigerian side loaded with attacking talent and international experience.

He added, “It is important that we control our opponent’s emotions. We need to make them chase the ball and force them to play behind their lines.”

The Panthers finished second in Group E with 25 points, just one point behind Côte d’Ivoire.