Nigeria advanced to the World Cup playoff final after a thrilling 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon in Rabat on Thursday, setting up a decisive clash against the winner between DR Congo and Cameroon for a place in the intercontinental playoff.
The Super Eagles broke the deadlock in the 78th minute when Akor Adams pounced on a poor back pass to slot home the opener.
Gabon, however, fought back late in regulation time as Mario Lemina’s deflected effort in the 89th minute made it 1–1, forcing the game into extra time.
Nigeria quickly regained control in the extra period. Chidera Ejuke restored the lead in the 97th minute with a composed finish after being teed up by Wilfred Ndidi.
Star striker Victor Osimhen then sealed the win with two stunning goals — the first, a powerful angled strike in the 102nd minute, and the second, an assured finish in the 110th minute — to secure a 4–1 triumph.
Coach Finidi George made tactical substitutions to preserve the team’s rhythm and control, bringing on Onyeka for Adams in the 83rd minute and introducing Awaziem and Ekong in the 108th minute to solidify the defence.
Despite Gabon’s late efforts and multiple substitutions, Nigeria’s backline held firm to see out the victory.
With the win, the Super Eagles move a step closer to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, awaiting the outcome of the DR Congo vs Cameroon encounter to determine their final playoff opponent.
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