Former Super Eagles defender Godfrey Oboabona has expressed strong confidence in Nigeria’s ability to triumph in their upcoming FIFA World Cup playoff clash against Gabon.
He described it as a unique challenge but one the team is well-equipped to handle.
Speaking ahead of the crucial encounter, Oboabona highlighted the leadership and infectious energy of star striker Victor Osimhen as key to the team’s success.
Oboabona, who represented Nigeria during their successful 2013 Africa Cup of Nations campaign, emphasized that the playoff match against Gabon presents “a different ball game entirely” since the teams did not face each other in the group stages.
However, he remains optimistic about Nigeria’s prospects, pointing to the squad’s quality and mentality as decisive factors.
The former defender reserved special praise for Osimhen, whose commitment and drive on the pitch have become a rallying force for the Super Eagles.
“It’s not just about the goals he scores, but the energy he brings,” Oboabona said.
“His passion inspires the entire team. If every player can match Osimhen’s zeal, Nigeria will
be unstoppable in Africa.”
Drawing comparisons to past Nigerian stars such as Emmanuel Emenike, Brown Ideye, and Ahmed Musa, Oboabona noted that Osimhen’s leadership sets a high standard for the squad.
“When you have a striker who motivates the team like that, it pushes everyone — especially the defenders — to step up. If Osimhen gives us a goal, it’s our job to ensure we don’t concede.”
Also read: Mikel Obi Blames Poor Infrastructure for Africa World Cup Struggles
Oboabona also highlighted the positive influence from the bench, crediting the team’s captain
for rallying the players.
“I can see the skipper gingering the team from the sidelines. With this kind of performance and mentality, no matter who we face in Africa, we will overcome,” he added.
The Super Eagles are set to face Gabon on November 13 in a single-leg semifinal, with the winner facing either Cameroon or the Democratic Republic of Congo for a spot in the Intercontinental Playoffs in March.
