Ekong ahead of the 2026 World Cup Playoff:  Aubameyang causes problems for defenders

Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has identified Gabon's captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as the team's most potent threat ahead of Thursday's 2026 World Cup playoff semi-final, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Aubameyang, who has scored seven goals in the qualifiers, is expected to lead the Gabonese attack at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat.

Troost-Ekong warned that the Super Eagles cannot afford to underestimate their opponents, with the experienced striker posing a significant danger to the Nigerian defence.

“Gabon is a strong team. Aubameyang continues to lead from the front, causing problems for defenders.

"I’ve played against him in Saudi Arabia, and I know what he brings. In Africa, you can’t underestimate any team, and we certainly won’t do that with Gabon,” Troost-Ekong told Olympics.com.

The match kicks off at 5 pm Nigerian time, with the winner set to face either Cameroon or DR Congo in the playoff final.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun