The Panthers of Gabon’s national team head coach, Thierry Mouyouma, has said he will be adjusting their approach ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash against Nigeria.
Mouyouma’s men are set to face the Super Eagles in the first semi-final at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat, Morocco on Thursday.
The Panthers enter the match having suffered just one defeat in the qualifiers, but they are bracing for a stern challenge against the three-time African champions.
“We will have to change things against Nigeria, especially on a tactical and even technical level,” Mouyouma told the Gabonese Press Agency.
The coach stressed the need to contain Nigeria’s strengths, adding, “It is important that we control the emotion of our opponent. We must make them run after the ball and play behind their lines.”
Kick-off for this highly anticipated showdown is scheduled for 5pm Nigeria time.