2026 WCQ: Playoff against Cameroon, Gabon won’t be easy – Ikpeba warns Super Eagles

Former Super Eagles forward Victor Ikpeba has cautioned that Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup playoff clash against either Cameroon or Gabon will not be an easy encounter.

Nigeria thrashed Benin Republic 4-0 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, courtesy of a sublime hat-trick from Victor Osimhen.

Frank Onyeka added a crucial fourth goal, boosting Nigeria’s goal difference and securing their place among Africa’s best runners-up.

The top four runners-up from the continent will compete in a mini-tournament in November 2025. So far, only Gabon and Cameroon have confirmed qualification alongside Nigeria.

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

Speaking on SuperSport, Ikpeba expressed disappointment that Nigeria failed to qualify directly, noting that the playoff round would be a tough test for the three-time African champions.

“People are disappointed. We should top our group with the potential we have,” he said.

“I can’t wait for the playoff. The games with Gabon and Cameroon are spicy. These are the great derbies in African football.

“If we have to play Cameroon, that is another struggle, another spicy game. It’s not going to come easy, in this playoff, no.

“I wish our boys well. All the best of luck, and if they get to these games with the same mentality, I think we will get through it.”

South Africa topped Group C with 18 points and claimed the automatic ticket after beating Rwanda 3-0 on Tuesday.

2026 WCQ: Playoff against Cameroon, Gabon won’t be easy – Ikpeba warns Super Eagles