Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has expressed confidence in the Super Eagles’ ability to secure a 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket ahead of Thursday’s crucial playoff semi-final clash against the Panthers of Gabon.
Speaking ahead of the encounter, Gusau assured fans that the team remains focused and ready to deliver a strong performance, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The pay dispute that disrupted Tuesday’s training session has been fully resolved, allowing the players to shift their attention back to football matters. The squad is now determined to put the match beyond Gabon’s reach and book a place in Sunday’s final of the African playoff series.
“We believe in the players and their ability to make Nigeria proud, not only on Thursday, but throughout these playoffs. We have a team capable of earning a World Cup ticket.”
Thursday’s high-stakes encounter will take place at the Complexe Sportif Prince Héritier Moulay Al Hassan in Rabat, kicking off at 5 p.m. local time — the same time zone as Nigeria. It will mark the 10th meeting between the two nations at the senior level. Out of their previous nine encounters, Nigeria has recorded five victories and three draws, underscoring their historical edge over the Gabonese side.
With morale restored in camp and confidence running high, Gusau believes the Super Eagles possess both the quality and determination to advance one step closer to booking their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye