08.11.2025 18:51
Tensions rose ahead of the semi-final match between Nigeria and Gabon in the 2026 World Cup African Qualifiers. Galatasaray's striker Victor Osimhen claimed that he would lead Nigeria to the World Cup. However, these words were met with sarcastic remarks from Gabon's head coach Thierry Mouyuma. Mouyuma dismissed Osimhen's bold statements, stating that such remarks were merely motivational phrases. This situation further heightened the atmosphere before the Nigeria-Gabon match.
The 2026 World Cup Africa Qualifiers semi-final will see Nigeria face Gabon. Galatasaray's star striker Victor Osimhen drew attention with his statements before the match, while Gabon’s head coach Thierry Mouyuma's words raised the tension.
OSIMHEN: "I WILL TAKE NIGERIA TO THE WORLD CUP"
Victor Osimhen, who has been in the spotlight for his performance at Galatasaray, stated that he would do everything he can for his country to qualify for the World Cup.
The star striker expressed his determination by saying, "I will do everything to take Nigeria to the World Cup."
MOUYUMA'S SARCASM: "AUBAMEYANG HAS ALREADY SHOWN IT"
Osimhen's statements were met with sarcasm by Gabon’s head coach Thierry Mouyuma. Mouyuma said, "I think Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has already answered this question and showed it by scoring four goals against Gambia," belittling the Nigerian star's words.
"HE SAID THE SAME AT AFCON, BUT COULDN'T WIN"
Recalling the final of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, Mouyuma remarked, "He said the same thing in the last AFCON, but Ivory Coast won. Such statements are just motivational phrases," referring to Osimhen.
TENSION IS RISING
Osimhen's statements and Mouyuma's response have heated up the atmosphere ahead of the Nigeria-Gabon match. The winner of the semi-final, which will be played on Thursday, November 13 at 19:00 TRT, will face the winner of the Cameroon-Democratic Republic of Congo match at 22:00 TRT for a spot in the 2026 World Cup final.