Alex Iwobi believes the Super Eagles are ready to prove themselves when they face Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff semi-final in Rabat on Thursday.

The Nigerian midfielder says confidence in camp is soaring as the team aims to take one step closer to returning to football’s biggest stage.

Alex Iwobi Confident Super Eagles Can Handle Gabon Challenge

Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, Alex Iwobi admitted that the upcoming clash against the Panthers of Gabon would not be easy but stressed that belief within the Super Eagles squad has never been higher.

Iwobi says they want to give themselves another chance to qualify for the World Cup and hope they will get the chance to do that.

He added that they have to face Gabon first and was sure Aubameyang also wants to reach the World Cup.

“I’ve been in one [Russia 2018], and I would like to be in one again.

The Fulham star emphasised that every player understands the importance of the tie, describing it as another opportunity to redeem a shaky start in the qualifiers.

Aubameyang Threat Looms as Nigeria Target Redemption

Gabon will rely heavily on veteran forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who has scored seven goals in the qualifiers.

Iwobi acknowledged the threat posed by the 36-year-old, praising his consistency.

Iwobi admitted that while Aubameyang may be getting older, he doesn’t seem like it, describing him as a youthful player due to his energy and sharpness.

He also admitted that he wasn’t sure how they would manage to contain the former Arsenal and Chelsea star.

However, the Super Eagles are determined to build on the momentum they found under head coach Eric Chelle, who guided them to a crucial win over Benin last month.

With Victor Osimhen firing up front and Iwobi pulling the strings in midfield, Nigeria believe they have enough quality to secure a spot in the playoff final.

Iwobi Sends Message to Nigerian Fans

The Super Eagles midfielder also reached out to supporters who have expressed frustration with the team’s earlier qualifying performances.

“They (the fans) need to understand we all have the same goal. “I understand when they’re disappointed because we are very disappointed in not winning games comfortably or winning against teams that maybe we should have.”

He added, “We feel like on any day, if we give 100%, and we’ve got the players to do so, that we can beat any team. “But there’s one thing is saying it, we have to prove it.”

Alex Iwobi is about to make his 90th appearance for the national team.

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Last Updated on November 12, 2025 9:13 am by footballrover