Coach Thierry Mouyouma during the 2026 FIFA World Cup match between Gabon and Gambia. Photo by Moussavou AristidexImago
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are slight favourites heading into their game against Gabon on Thursday….
Gabon coach Thierry Mouyouma has revealed that he will tweak his playing style when they face Nigeria’s Super Eagles on Thursday, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Super Eagles will resume their search for a 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket on Thursday at the Prince Moulay Hassan Staidum, when they lock horns with the Panthers in the semifinals of the CAF World Cup playoffs.
Nigeria have the better quality on paper. But the Super Eagles have often flattered to deceive, so the Gabonese team, which is comprised of mainly players in their 30s have a good shot at nicking something at least.
It is a knockout out fixture, so anything can happen, and there won’t be any second chances.
Ahead of the game, Panthers coach Mouyouma, who has been in charge of the team since 2023, is positive that his team can defeat Nigeria. However. He will tweak four things going into the game.
Thierry Mouyouma: What Gabonese Coach Plans To Change Against Nigeria
“Against Nigeria, for example, it will be a clash of styles,” Thierry Mouyouma told Afrik Foot.
“We perhaps need to improve our game management, learn to slow the tempo, better manage our energy, counter their set pieces, and their runs in behind the defense.
“These are two of Nigeria’s strengths, for instance. It’s by playing against Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal, and Nigeria that we progress.”
The Gabon job is Mouyouma’s first in his coaching career. He played for the Panthers in his playing career, so he will have extra motivation to qualify with the team, since it is his country.
Nonetheless, Super Eagles fans will be hoping the Eric Chelle, who has more experience that his Gabonese counterpart, leads his lads to victory on Thursday and possibly on Monday.