Thierry Mouyouma explains why he called up suspended player for WCQ playoff v Nigeria

Gabon head coach Thierry Mouyouma has explained his decision to include suspended defender Mick Onfia in the squad for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff semifinal clash against Nigeria.

Onfia, who plies his trade with Hafia FC, was named in Gabon's 26-man roster for the playoff fixtures despite being unavailable for the first game against the Super Eagles due to a suspension accumulated from two yellow cards.

The defender's inclusion initially raised questions among observers, but Mouyouma clarified that his decision was strategic and aimed at having Onfia available for the final should Gabon overcome Nigeria.

"Regarding Mick (Onfia), yes, Mick is indeed suspended due to two yellow cards," Thierry Mouyouma said at Thursday's press conference monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com.  

"But if you look closely, we are playing a semifinal against Nigeria and if we qualify we have a final to play. We have not lost our mind. That's just what we did."

Omfia received yellow cards in Gabon's 4–0 win over Seychelles in September and their final group-stage game against Burundi on October 14, resulting in an automatic one-match suspension.

The dependable centre-back has been a key figure in Thierry Mouyouma's plans in recent months, starting five of Gabon's last six matches since the end of the 2024–25 season.

During that period, he was instrumental in helping the Panthers register four clean sheets and clinch a playoff berth.

His absence will, however, be a major setback for Gabon as they look to contain Nigeria's attacking threats, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze. 

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo Credit: Fegafoot

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