Ogenyi Onazi Advises Super Eagles Ahead Of World Cup Playoff Against Gabon

Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has cautioned Nigeria’s senior national team to remain focused and disciplined as they gear up for next month’s make-or-break World Cup qualifying playoff against Gabon.

Naija News reports that the Super Eagles reignited their 2026 World Cup hopes with a resounding 4-0 win over Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday, a result that restored belief after a shaky start to the qualifiers. The victory lifted Eric Chelle’s men to second place in Group C with 17 points, keeping their dream of returning to football’s biggest stage alive.

Nigeria’s next hurdle is a tricky two-legged playoff against Gabon, with the first leg set for November 13 in Morocco. A win would set up a final clash against either Cameroon or DR Congo for a chance to represent Africa in the intercontinental playoffs scheduled to take place in Mexico in March 2026.

Speaking ahead of the fixture, Onazi warned that Gabon are not to be taken lightly, pointing to their strong form during the group phase.

“It will not be an easy game because Gabon had an almost flawless qualification campaign with very good points,” Onazi said in an interview with Footy-Africa.

“We must approach the match carefully. Football has evolved, and the Gabonese will be a tough side to face. I believe we can beat them, but the players must treat it like a World Cup or AFCON final.”

Gabon finished second of their group and are currently ranked 77th in the world. Their squad features several experienced players, including Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Denis Bouanga and Mario Lemina, both of whom have been instrumental in their recent success.

Onazi, a member of the Super Eagles squad that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, believes the key to success will be mental strength and unity within the team. He urged the players to avoid complacency and maintain the same hunger that drove them to their last victory.

“Games like this are won not just with skill but with the right mindset,” he explained. “Every player must understand what is at stake. The World Cup is not just another tournament; it is the dream of every footballer. If they play with that mentality, qualification will not be far-fetched.”

The 31-year-old also expressed confidence that Nigeria has rediscovered its rhythm at the right time. He noted that, despite the early setbacks in the campaign, the squad now looks more settled and determined.

“I believe the team will qualify because of recent events. There were a lot of doubts in the minds of Nigerians, but this has given us another chance at qualification,” Onazi said.

“A lot went wrong at the start of the qualifiers, but now, with the passion and determination the team has shown, you can see they understand what it means to play at the World Cup. The players have shown commitment, and I believe that drive will take them through.”