World Cup 2026: Garba Lawal warns Nigeria ahead of Gabon play-offs

Nigeria’s steps towards qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will undergo a stern test when they face Gabon in November.

The Super Eagles wove their way into play-offs alongside DR Congo, Gabon and Cameroon with the mini-qualifying tournament set between November 13 and 16 in Rabat, Morocco for a place at the mundial.

Former Nigeria international, Garba Lawal has shared words on the West African nation’s quest to book a slot for the global football festival to be co-hosted by Canada, USA and Mexico next year.

Nigeria must not underestimate quality of Gabon

“It’s very tough. It would have been better if we had qualified through the normal way than going through this long route. It’s not straightforward after you win, you still have to wait for a team from Asia or South America,” Lawal told Brila FM.

“Even if you win the CAF Intercontinental stage, you must make sure you win the global one. It’s not a small task at all.”

“I don’t write Gabon off; they are a very good team and well organized. In football, if you are not organized, even with the best players, the team won’t function well. Every team in Africa is improving.

Nigeria had a tough ride to play-offs but managed to wallop Benin by 4-0 in the final day of the qualifiers to reach the next hurdle.

The opening match will feature Nigeria against Gabon with the second semi-final between Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Final will be played on Sunday, 16 November 2025 at Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan.

The winner will advance to the FIFA Play-Off Inter-Continental Tournament in March 2026 for a chance to secure Africa’s 10th and final place at the FIFA World Cup 2026.