Nigeria vs Gabon: Panthers coach lauds ‘Competitor’ tipped to wreck Super Eagles

Gabon coach Thierry Mouyouma has hailed Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as the greatest player in the nation’s history, ahead of Thursday’s high-stakes World Cup qualifying playoff against Nigeria in Rabat.

The 36-year-old striker, fresh from rediscovering his form with Marseille, is expected to be Gabon’s biggest weapon as the Panthers seek to shock the Super Eagles.

Speaking to Afrik Foot, Mouyouma described Aubameyang as a “competitor” whose influence goes beyond his goal tally.

“Pierre-Emerick is 36, but I feel like he's getting better with age,” he said. “He’s been one of the best African players for over ten years. With the national team, it’s not just his goals that stand out, his attitude and leadership are exceptional.”

The coach revealed that his first mission after taking charge was to convince the veteran forward to return to international duty, a move that has since paid off.

The ex-Arsenal, Chelsea, and Barcelona striker has scored seven goals in five qualifiers, leading Gabon’s hopes of reaching their first-ever World Cup. Mouyouma added, “He’s the best player in the history of Gabonese football. He lifts the team every time he steps on the pitch.”

On the Nigerian side, midfielder Alex Iwobi has warned that neutralising Aubameyang will be key to Nigeria’s success.

“He’s getting on, but you wouldn’t think that. He’s a youthful guy,” Iwobi told BBC Sport, recalling their time together at Arsenal.

The Fulham star acknowledged that Aubameyang’s pace, movement, and sharp finishing make him as dangerous as ever, and Nigeria’s defence, led by William Troost-Ekong, will have to stay alert, especially given his remarkable scoring streak in both Ligue 1 and CAF qualifiers.

With Gabon’s captain in scintillating form and the Super Eagles eager to prove a point, Thursday’s clash in Rabat promises to be a thrilling contest where one moment of brilliance could decide who takes a giant leap toward the 2026 World Cup.