African qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup resumes this September international break, with Seychelles hosting Gabon in Group F.
The Islanders are already out of the running after six straight defeats, while Gabon remain firmly in the hunt, sitting just a point off leaders Ivory Coast.
As part of this week's round of World Cup qualifiers betting tips, check out our Seychelles vs Gabon prediction below.
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Seychelles vs Gabon prediction: Visitors set for a routine win
Key statistics
- Seychelles have scored just two goals and conceded 30 in their six qualifying matches so far.
- Ranked 203rd in the FIFA rankings, the Islanders sit 123 places below Gabon (80th).
- Seychelles have lost all six qualifiers played, failing to keep a clean sheet in each.
- Gabon have won two away games in this qualification series, showing strength on the road.
Correct score prediction: Seychelles 0-3 Gabon
Seychelles may approach this game with pride and determination, but the gulf in class is simply too wide. Gabon should dominate proceedings and collect three straightforward points.
Odds and win probability – Bookmakers side with Gabon
- Home Win: 7.65 (10.9%)
- Draw: 5.00 (16.7%)
- Away Win: 1.15 (73.4%)
Odds via Ladbrokes, subject to change.
The markets make Gabon overwhelming favourites, with the Panthers expected to take maximum points. Betting on a Seychelles upset looks highly unrealistic given the form and quality gap.
Recent meetings – Gabon’s edge is clear
The two sides have met only once before, earlier in this qualification cycle, when Gabon ran out 3-0 winners. The reverse fixture offers little to suggest a different outcome.
Seychelles preview – Playing for pride
Seychelles have endured a torrid campaign, losing all six qualifiers and conceding heavily along the way. Their latest outing was a 5-0 defeat to Burundi, further underlining their defensive fragility.
Coach Ralph Jean Louis has called up a 23-man squad blending home-based players with a handful of professionals abroad.
He has emphasised discipline and defensive structure, but the task of containing a side packed with European-based talent like Gabon remains daunting.
Predicted XI: Ah-Kong (GK); Walters, Payet, Cissoko, Mellie; Raheriniaina, Sophia, Ravignia; Henriette, Labrosse & Cadeau
Last five games
- 25/03/2025: Burundi 5-0 Seychelles (WCQ)
- 20/03/2025: Gabon 3-0 Seychelles (WCQ)
- 03/07/2024: Namibia 3-1 Seychelles (COSAFA Cup)
- 01/07/2024: Angola 3-2 Seychelles (COSAFA Cup)
- 28/06/2024: Lesotho 1-1 Seychelles (COSAFA Cup)
Gabon preview – Chasing Ivory Coast at the top
Gabon enter this fixture with confidence, sitting just a point behind Group F leaders Ivory Coast. A recent 2-0 friendly win over Guinea-Bissau showed the squad’s sharpness heading into September.
Coach Thierry Mouyouma has named a strong 25-man list including star veterans Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Mario Lemina, and Didier Ndong, supported by younger players pushing for breakthroughs.
Aubameyang, despite being 36, remains central to their hopes as the country’s all-time leading scorer.
Predicted XI: Mbaba (GK); Oyono, Moucketou-Moussounda, Ecuele, Mboul; Poko, Lemina, Obiang; Kanga, Aubameyang & Bouanga
Last five games
- 09/06/2025: Gabon 2-0 Guinea-Bissau (FRI)
- 06/06/2025: Niger 4-3 Gabon (FRI)
- 23/03/2025: Kenya 1-2 Gabon (WCQ)
- 20/03/2025: Gabon 3-0 Seychelles (WCQ)
- 18/11/2024: Central African Rep 0-1 Gabon (AFCON Q)
Player to watch – Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
The veteran striker continues to be Gabon’s talisman. With three goals in this qualifying series, Aubameyang’s pace, movement, and finishing remain decisive weapons. Against a fragile Seychelles defence, he looks poised to add to his tally.