Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has stressed the importance of stopping Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang ahead of Nigeria's clash with Gabon in the FIFA World Cup playoffs.

Aubameyang, 36, has been in stellar form for Gabon during the World Cup qualifiers, netting seven goals in nine appearances for the Panthers.

The former Arsenal captain is expected to lead the attack for Thierry Mouyouma’s side when they take on the Super Eagles in the semifinals of the playoffs on Thursday, November 13.

Speaking ahead of the crucial encounter, Iwobi reiterated the need for the Super Eagles to keep the former Barcelona and Chelsea striker at bay.

“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.”

A win for Nigeria would set up a final against either Cameroon or the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final CAF playoff on Sunday, November 16.

WDN