Gabon coach happy with underdog tag ahead of World Cup playoff against Nigeria

The two teams will be facing off in a once off semi-final clash, with the winner set to face the winner between Cameroon and DR Congo before heading into the final play-off rounds in March next year.

"We know that Nigeria, a great African nation, are the favourites," said Gabon's Mouyouma to Afrik Foot.

"And our status as an outsider suits us very well. Nigeria will have more pressure, which makes sense. But if we respect this team for everything they represent, we don’t fear it."

The Panthers have never qualified for the FIFA World Cup, but Nigeria have made it to the global showpiece on six previous occasions since 1994.

“It is a long journey. We knew it, but these games will advance the team and the technical staff,” added the 50-year-old.

"There are big stakes, and emotionally, I prefer that we play games like the one on November 13, like those of the AFCON, then friendly matches."

Gabon will face Nigeria at the Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan.