In a dramatic match, Nigeria defeated Gabon 4-1 after extra time to advance to the finals of the World Cup play-offs.
Nigeria advanced to the final of the African play-offs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a dramatic 4-1 win over Gabon after extra time.
Chidera Ejuke and Victor Osimhen struck in the first period of added time. This came after the match in Rabat had ended 1-1 after 90 minutes.
Osimhen ripped off his protective face mask and shirt to celebrate his goal. This was no doubt partly in relief after he squandered a glorious chance. He had the opportunity to win it for the Super Eagles in the 12th minute of stoppage time at the end of the game.
The Galatasaray man grabbed his second goal of the evening five minutes into the second half of extra time. This ensured victory.
Nigeria, which enjoyed the better of the semi-final tie, had seemed on course to win in regulation time. This was after Akor Adams pounced on a poor back-pass to give Eric Chelle’s side the lead in the 78th minute.
But Gabon levelled in the 89th minute through Mario Lemina’s deflected shot. This sent the game to extra time. However, the Panthers were eventually undone by clinical finishing from their West African rivals.
Nigeria will face either Cameroon or DR Congo in Africa’s play-off final on Sunday (19:00 GMT).
The winners of that match will then progress to a six-team intercontinental qualifier. This qualifier will be held in March and will determine the final two qualifiers for next year’s World Cup.
Super Eagles move a step closer
Nigeria missed out on Qatar 2022, and their bid to return to the finals has seen numerous twists and turns. And these have occurred over the course of a two-year campaign, including two changes of manager.
The Super Eagles only qualified for the African play-offs on goal difference. This occurred after a 91st-minute strike in their final group game against Benin. Players and technical staff boycotted training on Tuesday over unpaid allowances and match bonuses.
Yet the side showed no ill effects from that dispute. They took the game to Gabon in persistent rain in the Moroccan capital.
Adams was denied early on, and Osimhen headed wide from nine yards, and Gabon goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba then made two brilliant reflex saves.
The Panthers looked to play on the counter-attack. However, one major flashpoint came early in the second half. They claimed a penalty for a shirt pull by Bright Osayi-Samuel on Aaron Appindangoye.
Yet, after referee Abongile Tom spent over three minutes studying his pitch-side monitor and in conversation with Video Assistant Referee Akhona Makalima, the appeals were turned down.
Denis Bouanga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had scored 15 goals between them for Gabon during the group stage. However, they rarely had a sight at goal as 20-year-old Benjamin Frederick impressed at the heart of the Nigerian defence.
Meanwhile, the result extends Chelle’s unbeaten start since he became the first non-Nigerian African to take charge of the Super Eagles in January.
The Malian has revived a faltering qualification campaign. He is now one game closer to leading the three-time continental champions to the expanded 48-team World Cup. This victory helps win over those who questioned his appointment.
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