Marseille coach hints at what Super Eagles should expect from Aubameyang ahead of WCQ playoff

Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi has offered an insight into what the Super Eagles should expect from Gabon captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang when both nations meet in next month's 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifying playoff.

By finishing as the top-ranked second-placed team in the qualifiers, Gabon secured a playoff clash with Nigeria, who narrowly edged out Burkina Faso to claim the final spot. 

The three-time African champions required a dramatic late goal from Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka to advance.

Aubameyang was in scintillating form during the qualifying campaign, scoring seven goals in five matches, including a stunning double brace in Gabon’s thrilling 4-3 victory over The Gambia.

At club level, the former Arsenal, Chelsea and Barcelona forward has also been impressive, contributing four goals and four assists in eight appearances for Marseille this season.

Following his side's 6–2 win over Le Havre, De Zerbi expressed admiration for the veteran striker's overall contribution since taking charge of the Ligue 1 outfit.

Highlighting the qualities of the Gabon captain, he told Le Phoceen: "He's a true champion, a different kind of player.

"I'm discovering him to be even stronger than I imagined. He has a lot of qualities, he's not just a goalscorer.

"He can make assists, bring speed, depth, he's a hard worker too... He's a champion."

The Super Eagles will face Gabon in the semifinals of the playoffs on November 13 in Morocco, with Aubameyang expected to return after missing the match against Burundi due to suspension.

Remarkably, the 36-year-old has never faced Nigeria in his international career, which spans over 80 caps for the Panthers, making the upcoming encounter a landmark moment for the Gabonese skipper.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit: fegafoot.ga

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