World Cup (Q): Mario Lemina expresses mixed emotions after Gabon exit

Gabon national team midfielder Mario Lemina has expressed mixed feelings after the Panthers hope of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup got dashed.

The Panthers lost 4-1 to the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier playoff clash in Morocco.

Un mélange d’émotions entre rage, déception et fierté…

Nous nous étions promis de nous battre jusqu’au bout pour ce maillot, mais cela n’a pas suffi… Servons-nous de cette expérience pour progresser et avancer plus forts vers nos objectifs.

Fier de vous les gars. Merci 💚🇬🇦 pic.twitter.com/761FTEkDS2

— Mario Lemina (@LeminaM_13) November 14, 2025

Reacting after the the defeat, Lemina took to his X (formerly Twitter) handle to state all though the plan was to fight to the end, it wasn’t enough to get through to the final of the playoffs.

“A mix of emotions between rage, disappointment, and pride… We had promised ourselves to fight to the end for this jersey, but it wasn’t enough… Let’s use this experience to progress and move forward stronger toward our goals.

Proud of you guys. Thank you”

Nigeria took the lead through Sevilla striker Akor Adams before the Galatasaray midfielder equalised the game in the 89th minute to drag the match to extra.

However in extra time Chidera Ejuke returned the Super Eagles back in front before Lemina’ teammate at Galatasaray, Victor Osimhen hit the back of the net twice to seal the victory.

The Super Eagles now have a date with DR Congo in the final playoff on Sunday at the Moulay Hassan Stadium.