Victor Ikpeba has advised Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle to stick to the same lineup used in the 4-0 thrashing of Benin Republic in October, ahead of their clash against Gabon, SportPremi reports.
The Super Eagles face Gabon in this month’s CAF World Cup playoff semifinals, with the winner going ahead to play either Cameroon or Democratic Republic of Congo who clash in the other semifinal tie.
Eric Chelle announced his 24-man squad with goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, Chidozie Awaziem, Raphael Onyedika and Chidera Ejuke all making their return to the squad.
The three-time African champions had defeated Benin Republic 4-0 in their final group qualifying match last month to book their spot among the best-placed runners-up and revive their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen led from the front with a remarkable treble, while Frank Onyeka added a fourth in stoppage-time to seal the comprehensive victory.
What Ikpeba said ahead of the match
Victor Ikpeba, who represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cup tournaments – in 1994 and 1998, advised Eric Chelle to maintain the same team ahead of the Gabon clash.
According to the former African footballer of the year winner, it is important to maintain stability and chemistry in the team.
“You don’t change a winning team. This is a second chance for Nigeria to make things right. We have the quality, experience, and motivation to return to the biggest stage in world football”, Ikpeba said.
“Gabon have never qualified for the World Cup, and Cameroon are no longer as dominant as they used to be. If we stay focused and play with the same hunger we showed against Benin, qualification should be within our grasp.
With the right mentality and minimal disruption to our setup, this team can reclaim Nigeria’s place among the world’s elite”, the ex-Super Eagles international added.
“This is our moment to show that Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African football.”
How can Nigeria qualify for the World Cup?
Nigeria’s chances of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup looked all but over following a 1-1 draw with South Africa in September.
However, Bafana Bafana suffered a point deduction which revived the Super Eagles’ hopes and the win over Benin ensured they qualified as one of the second-placed teams.
Nigeria must defeat Gabon, before heading to the CAF playoff finals, where they will battle either Cameroon or DR Congo.
The three-time African champions will then head to the intercontinental playoff stages, where they will face a team from either Asia, Oceania or South America to book their spot at the showpiece event.
