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Super Eagles Target Aubameyang As Osimhen Joins Squad Ahead Of High-Stakes World Cup Play-Off
The magnitude of Thursday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup play-off semi-final against Gabon is not lost on Nigeria’s Super Eagles, who are acutely aware that this is a do-or-die encounter. Midfielder Alex Iwobi singled out Gabon star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for close attention, emphasizing the need to neutralize the 36-year-old forward.
This one-off knockout game carries high stakes: the winner advances to the final intercontinental play-off round, keeping their World Cup dreams alive. Aubameyang has been in fine form for the Panthers, scoring seven goals in nine appearances during qualifying, making him the primary threat for the Super Eagles to contain.
“He’s getting on, but you wouldn’t think that. He’s a youthful guy,” Iwobi told BBC Sport. “I don’t know how we’re going to lock him up.”
Nigeria’s defense will need to find an effective strategy quickly if they are to halt Aubameyang’s lethal attacking instincts. Tactical discipline and coordination will be crucial to prevent the Gabon captain from turning the game in his side’s favor.
Meanwhile, star striker Victor Osimhen has joined the Super Eagles squad in Morocco, completing the initial assembly just hours before the crucial semi-final. His arrival is a major boost for Nigeria, providing firepower and leadership after a period of uncertainty caused by a player protest over unpaid bonuses and public speculation around captain William Troost-Ekong’s role.
With Osimhen’s presence and Iwobi’s focus on key threats, the Super Eagles are preparing for a tense battle against Gabon, fully aware that the outcome will determine whether they stay on course for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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