Gabon captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has sent a clear warning to the Super Eagles of Nigeria ahead of their crunch meeting in the African play-off semi-finals for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Both teams are set to face off on November 13 in Morocco, with a place in the intercontinental play-offs at stake.

Aubameyang played a key role in helping Gabon finish second in Group F behind Ivory Coast, while Nigeria sealed their own qualification spot after a commanding 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo.

Speaking to the media, the former Arsenal striker expressed his determination to lead the Panthers to their first-ever World Cup appearance.

“We want to go to the World Cup and, to get there, we have to win games,” Aubameyang said.
“I’m very motivated, and when you have the chance to go to the World Cup, you have to be even more motivated.”

The winner of the African play-offs will advance to the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico in March 2026, where six teams will battle for just two remaining tickets to the expanded World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

With Nigeria aiming to return to the global stage and Gabon chasing history, the November showdown promises to be one of Africa’s most intense fixtures yet.