Former Super Eagles midfielder Mutiu Adepoju has urged the national team to maintain the same tactical discipline and intensity that delivered victory in their final group-stage match against Benin Republic, as Nigeria prepares for tonight’s high-stakes World Cup playoff clash against Gabon in Rabat, Morocco.
Adepoju, a member of the historic 1994 AFCON-winning squad, said the upcoming fixture demands absolute focus, warning that the Gabonese side should not be underestimated despite Nigeria being the favourites on paper. According to him, the margin for error is “zero,” and the Super Eagles must approach the match with the mindset of a team fighting for survival.
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“This is not the time for experiments,” Adepoju said. “The tactics that worked against Benin were clear, direct, and suited to the players we have. We must keep that same approach — high concentration, good movement, and a compact shape — because Gabon are not here by accident.”
The former midfielder expressed confidence in the team’s ability to deliver, but stressed that success tonight will depend heavily on consistency and precision, especially in the opening stages of the match.
“Gabon have quality players, and in playoffs, anything can happen,” Adepoju added. “But if Nigeria plays with the same attitude we saw in the last match — with hunger, discipline, and commitment — I see no reason why we cannot win.”
Adepoju also advised the players to shut out the noise surrounding the recent bonus dispute, insisting that off-field issues must not be allowed to affect performance on the pitch.
He noted that playoff matches are often determined by small details and moments of brilliance, and urged the Super Eagles to manage the game intelligently, maintain possession better, and be clinical in front of goal.
With the winner advancing to Sunday’s final for a chance at Africa’s sole intercontinental playoff ticket, Adepoju believes the Super Eagles have both the quality and the momentum to take a decisive step toward the 2026 World Cup.
