Former Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi, has advised Nigeria’s national team to play with confidence, bravery, and passion when they face Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff on Thursday in Morocco.
Speaking on the Obi One Podcast Channel, the former Chelsea midfielder reminded the players of the honour and responsibility that comes with representing the country.
“Go into the game and play as we should — with full confidence, bravery, and passion, knowing you’re wearing the green-white-green. The badge of that green-white-green is huge,” Mikel said.
He noted that the team must handle the expectations of over 300 million Nigerians and show pride in their performance.
“I know they can do it, and I believe in them,” he added.
The winner of the Nigeria–Gabon clash will face the victor between Cameroon and DR Congo in Sunday’s playoff final.
Nigeria go into the encounter after a victory over Benin Republic, while Gabon defeated Burundi in their last outing.
