Super Eagles Begin Training in Rabat Ahead of World Cup Playoff Clash With Gabon
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will hold their first training session tonight in Rabat, Morocco, as preparations officially begin for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon, TalkTalk Nigeria reports.
The Nigerian team opened camp in Rabat on Sunday, with 10 players already on ground, including captain William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, and Tolu Arokodare.
Others who have checked in are Olakunle Olusegun, Wilfred Ndidi, Moses Simon, Benjamin Fredrick, and Chidozie Awaziem.
According to team officials, the remaining 14 players are expected to join the camp later today, bringing the squad to full strength before their first full training session under head coach Éric Chelle.
Nigeria will lock horns with the Panthers of Gabon at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex, Rabat, on Thursday, in what promises to be a thrilling semifinal tie in the playoff series.
Opinion: Early Arrivals Show Focus — But Super Eagles Must Match Discipline With Precision
The sight of key Super Eagles stars arriving early to camp is a positive signal ahead of Thursday’s all-important clash. In recent years, Nigeria’s biggest challenge hasn’t been talent — it’s been preparation and cohesion.
This time, things feel different. The blend of experienced names like Troost-Ekong, Ndidi, and Iwobi with the youthful energy of players like Olusegun and Fredrick could give the team the balance they’ve often lacked.
However, Gabon will not be pushovers. Their coach, Thierry Mouyouma, has already made it clear that his side will fight to control possession and frustrate Nigeria’s rhythm. That means the Super Eagles must not just show skill, but also tactical patience and defensive focus — two qualities that often decide tight qualifiers.
If Nigeria can combine early preparation with composure on matchday, there’s every reason to believe they can take a commanding step toward the 2026 World Cup.
For now, all eyes are on Rabat — where the journey begins tonight.
