Panthers of Gabon head coach, Thierry Mouyouma, has shared his thoughts following his team’s heavy loss to the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
The Gabonese side were outclassed 4-1 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff semi-final clash on Thursday night at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat.
Nigeria struck first through Jerome Akor, but Mario Lemina drew level for Gabon just before full-time.
The Super Eagles, however, took full control in extra time, with substitute Chidera Ejuke restoring the lead before Victor Osimhen added two more to wrap up a convincing victory.
Speaking after the match, Mouyouma acknowledged that his team fell short on both ends of the pitch.
“We were not good enough. We were not sharp enough in the offensive box, and we didn’t defend well in our defensive box. Nigeria did both and scored,” Mouyouma said.
He added that despite the scoreline, the game was closely contested.
“The match was decided on fine margins. The scoreline doesn’t show how well we competed against one of the most dangerous attacking sides in Africa.”
Looking ahead, Mouyouma noted that the focus will now shift to preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations scheduled to kick off in Morocco in December.
“It is painful that our dream of reaching the continental playoff is over, but we will learn from this and regroup for AFCON,” he added.
