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Panthers of Gabon head coach, Thierry Mouyouma says they will approach their 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs with the Super Eagles without fear.
Mouyouma, however, claimed the Super Eagles are favourites to win the semi-final tie. The coach further said the three-time African champions will be under pressure to win the game.
“We know that Nigeria, a great African nation, are the favourites, and our status as an outsider suits us very well,” Mouyouma said.
“Nigeria will have more pressure, which makes sense. But if we respect this team for everything they represent, we don’t fear it.”
The coach acknowledged the strength of the Nigerian team: “We know the value of its workforce, the dangers that are Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. And I think Nigeria knows us very well.
“We know that to play in the World Cup, you will have to beat the Super Eagles, then DR Congo or Cameroon, and one or two teams in March. It is a long journey. We knew it, but these games will advance the team and the technical staff.”
He concluded by emphasizing the importance of the matchup: “There are big stakes, and emotionally, I prefer that we play games like the one on November 13, like those of the AFCON, than friendly matches.”
Mouyouma’s side will take on the Super Eagles at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex, Rabat on Thursday.
