Gabon captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has sent a strong message to Nigeria’s Super Eagles ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash.
Speaking after helping the Panthers secure a place in the playoffs, the former Arsenal and Barcelona striker said Gabon is determined to make history by qualifying for the World Cup for the first time.
“We want to go to the World Cup, and to get there, we have to win games,” Aubameyang told The Standard. “I’m very motivated, and when you have the chance to go to the World Cup, you have to be even more motivated.”
The 36-year-old veteran, who remains the driving force of the Gabonese national team, will lead his side against Nigeria in the first leg of the CAF playoffs scheduled to take place in Morocco.
While the Panthers chase their maiden appearance at football’s biggest tournament, they will face a formidable Nigerian team eager to reclaim their place on the global stage after missing out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
With Aubameyang’s firepower and experience, Gabon hopes to upset the odds — but the Super Eagles are equally determined to soar back into the international spotlight.