(DDM) — The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially selected the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, as the venue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff semi-final between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Gabon.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the 22,000-capacity arena, renowned for its modern facilities and pristine turf, will host the crucial encounter on Thursday, November 13, 2025.
The upcoming clash marks the ninth meeting between both nations and their fifth encounter in World Cup qualifying history, with Nigeria holding a superior record of five wins, two draws, and one loss against the Panthers of Gabon.
Football analysts describe the matchup as one of the most important fixtures in recent Nigerian football history, following the Super Eagles’ inconsistent performances during the qualification rounds.
Sports observers note that CAF’s choice of Morocco aligns with its ongoing practice of using neutral venues for playoff matches to ensure fairness, logistical ease, and high broadcasting standards.
The Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium, located in the heart of Rabat, has hosted several continental tournaments, including CAF Champions League and Women’s Africa Cup of Nations games, making it a familiar venue for African teams.
Nigeria’s head coach, Finidi George, is expected to announce his final squad list next week, with several Europe-based players, including Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, and Wilfred Ndidi, tipped to make a return.
Team insiders told DDM that the Super Eagles are currently in camp preparations, focusing on tactical adjustments, injury management, and mental readiness ahead of the crucial knockout stage.
Meanwhile, the other semifinal fixture will see Cameroon take on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in a battle expected to determine who joins the final qualification round for the 2026 World Cup to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Football fans across Africa have expressed excitement about the upcoming matches, with many describing them as “mini-African finals” given the fierce competition for limited qualification slots.
CAF officials confirmed that match tickets will be available online and through local distribution channels in Morocco beginning next week.
The Super Eagles, three-time African champions, will be looking to reassert their dominance and reclaim their spot on the global stage after their shock absence from the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.