### Super Eagles Gear Up for World Cup Playoffs Against Gabon: A Comprehensive Overview The Super Eagles of Nigeria are preparing for a crucial playoff match against Gabon as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Head coach Eric Chelle has announced a 24-man squad that includes a mix of experienced players and emerging talents. Notably, the squad sees the return of key players after a year-long absence, while some significant absences have also been noted. The match is set to take place in Rabat, Morocco, and is seen as a vital step not only for World Cup qualification but also as a preparatory ground for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2025. ### Breakdown of the Super Eagles' Preparation and Squad Selection 1. **Squad Announcement**: - Eric Chelle has officially named a 24-man squad for the playoffs, featuring prominent players like Victor Osimhen and William Ekong [https://www.legit.ng/sports/football/1682293-eric-chelle-releases-24-man-squad-crucial-world-cup-playoff-gabon]. - The squad includes a blend of seasoned stars and young talents, aiming to balance experience with fresh energy [https://www.tori.ng/news/315316/super-eagles-announce-24man-squad-for-2026-fifa-wo.html]. 2. **Key Absences**: - Notable absentees from the squad include Inter Milan's Paul Onuachu and midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, who was ruled out due to a shoulder injury [https://www.legit.ng/sports/football/1682318-inter-milan-star-onauchu-top-4-players-missing-super-eagles-world-cup-playoffs-squad, https://www.legit.ng/sports/football/1682327-ebenezer-akinsanmiro-ruled-chelle-late-change-nigeria-squad-world-cup-playoffs]. 3. **Strategic Focus**: - Chelle has expressed that the playoffs will serve as a critical preparation phase for the upcoming AFCON tournament, emphasizing the importance of securing a victory against Gabon [https://www.legit.ng/sports/football/1682285-eric-chelle-share-plans-world-cup-playoff-prepare-afcon]. 4. **Gabon’s Threat**: - Gabon is expected to field a strong team, including star players like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Denis Bouanga, which poses a significant challenge for the Super Eagles [https://newtelegraphng.com/world-cup-playoff-gabon-unleash-aubameyang-bouanga-on-super-eagles, https://www.legit.ng/sports/football/1682039-aubameyang-bouanga-leads-gabon-squad-face-super-eagles-in-crucial-world-cup-playoff]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Squad Composition**: - Key players included in the squad: - **Goalkeepers**: Stanley Nwabali - **Defenders**: Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey - **Forwards**: Victor Osimhen, William Ekong - Notable absentees: Paul Onuachu, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro [https://www.legit.ng/sports/football/1682293-eric-chelle-releases-24-man-squad-crucial-world-cup-playoff-gabon, https://www.legit.ng/sports/football/1682318-inter-milan-star-onauchu-top-4-players-missing-super-eagles-world-cup-playoffs-squad]. - **Match Context**: - The playoff match is scheduled for November 13, 2025, in Rabat, Morocco, and is critical for Nigeria's World Cup aspirations [https://www.legit.ng/sports/football/1681472-super-eagles-coach-eric-chelle-submits-strong-squad-world-cup-playoffs]. ### Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for the Super Eagles In summary, the Super Eagles are at a crucial juncture as they prepare for their World Cup playoff against Gabon. The squad, led by Eric Chelle, combines experienced players with promising newcomers, aiming for a strong performance that not only secures World Cup qualification but also sets the stage for the upcoming AFCON. The absence of key players like Onuachu and Akinsanmiro may pose challenges, but the team's strategic focus and preparation could prove decisive in this high-stakes match. 1. **Squad Composition**: A balanced mix of experience and youth. 2. **Key Absences**: Notable players missing from the lineup. 3. **Strategic Focus**: Preparation for both the playoffs and AFCON. 4. **Gabon’s Threat**: A formidable opponent with star players. The outcome of this match will be pivotal for Nigeria's footballing future, making it a must-watch event for fans and analysts alike.