"Ikpeba Cautions Super Eagles: Playoff Battle with Cameroon and Gabon Will Be Tough"

Former Super Eagles forward Victor Ikpeba has warned that Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup playoff match against either Cameroon or Gabon will be a challenging encounter.

Nigeria convincingly defeated Benin Republic 4-0 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, thanks to a remarkable hat-trick from Victor Osimhen.

Frank Onyeka contributed a vital fourth goal, enhancing Nigeria’s goal difference and securing their position among Africa’s top runners-up.

The continent's top four runners-up will participate in a mini-tournament in November 2025. So far, only Gabon and Cameroon have confirmed their qualification alongside Nigeria.

The FIFA playoff tournament will showcase six countries competing for the final two African slots at the 2026 World Cup.

In an interview with SuperSport, Ikpeba expressed his disappointment that Nigeria did not qualify directly, emphasizing that the playoff round will be a significant challenge for the three-time African champions.

“People are disappointed. We should have topped our group given our potential,” he stated.

“I eagerly anticipate the playoff. Matches against Gabon and Cameroon are thrilling. These are significant rivalries in African football.

“If we face Cameroon, it will be another tough battle, another exciting match. It won’t be easy in this playoff, not at all.

“I wish our players the best of luck. If they approach these games with the right mentality, I believe we will succeed.”

South Africa finished at the top of Group C with 18 points, securing the automatic qualification ticket after defeating Rwanda 3-0 on Tuesday.