Former Super Eagles manager Gernot Rohr has predicted Nigeria will defeat Gabon in their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff. The Benin Republic coach, who led Nigeria from 2016-2021, expressed confidence in his former team’s capabilities.
Rohr guided Nigeria to the 2018 World Cup and 2019 AFCON semi-finals. He believes the current squad possesses superior quality to overcome Gabon. Teamwork and focus will be decisive factors in the clash.
“Aubameyang was young in 2012, and captain Bruno Ecuele Manga remains,” Rohr told Nation Sport. “But Nigeria has better players. If they replicate their collective performance against Benin, they’ll defeat Gabon.”
The German tactician further projected Nigeria would secure the FIFA Confederation Playoff ticket. He expects them to overcome DR Congo in the CAF playoff final. This would advance them to the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Meanwhile, Gabon’s coach Thierry Mouyouma will announce his 25-man squad this Thursday. Key players like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mario Lemina are expected to feature. The Panthers begin training in Rabat on Sunday ahead of the Nigeria showdown.
About the Author
