By our reporter 11.11.2025
Former Super Eagles captain, and two-time World Cuper John Obi Mikel said the national team must grind out a win against Gabon on Thursday, otherwise they would be headed home.
The Super Eagles are in Morocco preparing for the four nation World Cup qualifier playoffs starting with Gabon on Thursday. Cameroon and Congo DR play in the other game, before the final on Sunday.
Mikel speaking on his Obi One podcast noted that a good start against Gabon is the only guarantee the Super Eagles will do well in the final match and they must come up with their best ever game.
“The first game against Gabon is the most important game,” Mikel stated.
“Don’t underestimate Gabon, please don’t, because if we do that, then we are in trouble.”
“Go into that game and play like this is the last game you will ever play in your life, win that game and then we can think about either Cameroon or someone else.
“Go in the game, play as we should, with full confidence, bravery, and passion.”
However, team captain William Troosts Ekong assured that the Super Eagles will be up to the task.
“The first five rounds were tough, and we had to play catch-up. But reaching the playoffs is still a significant achievement,” he said.
“The challenges over the last two to three years have strengthened us, and I believe we’re well-prepared for what lies ahead.”