Alex Iwobi has said the Super Eagles are brimming with confidence ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff semi-final against Gabon.
The Nigerian team will face the Panthers at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat on Thursday.
Iwobi Expects Tough Test
Iwobi warned that the encounter with their West African rivals would be challenging.
“Giving ourselves another chance to go into the World Cup, the confidence is high,” Iwobi told BBC Sport Africa.
“I’ve been in one [Russia 2018], I would like to be in one again.
“Hopefully we get the chance to do that. It’s not going to be easy. We’ve got to play Gabon first and I’m sure he (Aubameyang) wants to go to the World Cup as well.”
On Aubameyang’s Threat
Gabon will rely on veteran striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to spearhead their attack. The 36-year-old has scored seven goals in the qualifiers.
“He’s getting on, but you wouldn’t think that. He’s a youthful guy,” added Iwobi.
“I don’t know how we’re going to lock him up.”
Message to the Fans
Iwobi also addressed supporters who have voiced frustration over the Eagles’ qualifying campaign so far.
“It wasn’t the greatest of starts,” he admitted.
“But they (the fans) also 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.
“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 saying it, we have to prove it.”
