Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has issued a strong-worded warning to Nigeria’s national team ahead of Thursday’s crucial World Cup playoff against Gabon, urging the players to avoid complacency and treat the tie with utmost seriousness.
Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, the Chelsea legend described the fixture as “the most important game” in Nigeria’s qualification journey for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“The first game is the most important game. Gabon is the most important game,” Mikel stressed. “Don’t underestimate Gabon, please don’t, because if we do that then we are in trouble.”
The ex-midfielder, who captained Nigeria to AFCON glory in 2013, cautioned that any lapse in focus could prove fatal to the team’s hopes.
“The mistake we are going to make is to think it’s just Gabon, then we are done completely,” he warned.
Mikel called on the players to approach the match with intensity and national pride, reminding them of the weight of the jersey they wear.
“Go into that game and play like this is the last game you will ever play in your life,” he said. “Play with confidence, bravery, and passion knowing you are wearing the green white green. The badge of that green white green is huge.”
While acknowledging the pressure that comes with representing a football-loving nation, Mikel expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to deliver.
“Three hundred million people, that’s a lot of pressure, but you have to deal with it. I know they can do it and I believe in them,” he added.
The Super Eagles began their training camp on Monday in Rabat, Morocco, ahead of the semi-final clash against Gabon. The winner will face either Cameroon or DR Congo for a spot in the Intercontinental Playoffs, which could secure Nigeria’s ticket to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
