After a near-perfect qualifying run that saw them claim eight wins, one draw, and just one defeat, Gabon’s journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached a crucial juncture. The Panthers finished their campaign with an impressive 25 points — a total that would have guaranteed qualification in most groups. Yet, fate had other plans, as Côte d’Ivoire edged them out by a single point to top Group F.

It was a bitter pill to swallow for Gabon fans and head coach Thierry Mouyouma, who admitted the disappointment but quickly turned his focus to what lies ahead.

> “To get 25 points and not qualify is hard to take,” Mouyouma told Sport News Africa. “But we are ready. It will be a good match to play, and a good test for the 2025 AFCON.”

Now, Mouyouma and his men prepare for a high-stakes showdown against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the African play-offs, set to take place between November 13 and 16 in Morocco. The winner of the tie will advance to the intercontinental play-offs — a final step on the road to the 2026 World Cup.

Gabon’s resilience and Nigeria’s pedigree promise an electrifying contest as both nations chase their World Cup dreams.