The Super Eagles will begin preparations for their 2026 World Cup playoff campaign when camp opens on Sunday, November 10, in Rabat, Morocco, the Nigeria Football Federation has announced.
Nigeria will compete alongside Gabon, DR Congo and Cameroon for Africa’s sole remaining ticket to the global tournament, with the winner advancing to the intercontinental playoffs in Mexico by March 2026.
The three-time African champions have been paired with Gabon in the playoff semi-finals. The victorious side will meet the winner of the Cameroon versus DR Congo fixture in the final.
The Confederation of African Football has scheduled both semi-final matches for Thursday, November 13, whilst the final will take place at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex on Sunday, November 16.
Nigeria’s clash with the Panthers of Gabon will be staged at either the 18,000-capacity El-Barid Stadium or the 22,000-capacity Prince Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex, both located in Rabat. CAF has confirmed that a draw will be conducted on Thursday to determine which semi-final will be played at each venue.
NFF president Ibrahim Gusau has expressed confidence in the team’s readiness for the crucial fixtures.
“Everything is being done, by the NSC and the NFF, to see that nothing is left to chance. No stone will be left unturned,” Gusau said. “That special spirit that saw the team rise to the occasion and score the four goals they actually needed against Bénin Republic on the final day of the qualifiers, will propel the team to victory in the play-offs.
“The camp will open in Rabat, Morocco on Sunday, November 9. We are speaking to the players already and everyone is on the same page. Every preparation needed to see the team soar to victory will be made, and I believe the players are additionally motivated by that keen desire of every professional footballer to feature at the FIFA World Cup finals.”
The Super Eagles secured their playoff berth after finishing as the best second-placed team from the qualifying series. The four competing nations were ranked and paired according to FIFA rankings released on October 17.
Nine African teams have already qualified directly for the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States. However, one of the four playoff participants will earn the opportunity to compete in the FIFA intercontinental playoff tournament for a chance to secure the continent’s final spot at the mundial.
