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Nigeria kept their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup alive on Thursday after securing a 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon in Rabat to advance to the final of the African play-offs.
The match ended 1–1 after 90 minutes, forcing extra time, where Chidera Ejuke and Victor Osimhen struck in quick succession to give the Super Eagles control of the tie. Osimhen, who had missed a clear opportunity deep into stoppage time in regulation, reacted emotionally after scoring, removing both his face mask and shirt during the celebration.
The Galatasaray forward later added his second of the night five minutes into the second period of extra time, sealing Nigeria’s progress.
Nigeria had appeared set to win in regulation time when Akor Adams capitalised on a poor back pass to put the Super Eagles ahead in the 78th minute. However, Gabon equalised in the 89th minute through Mario Lemina, whose shot took a deflection to force extra time.
Clinical finishing ultimately proved decisive as Nigeria pulled away from the Panthers during added time.
The Super Eagles will face either Cameroon or DR Congo in Sunday’s African play-off final at 19:00 GMT. The winner will advance to a six-team intercontinental qualifying tournament in March, which will decide the final two spots for the 2026 World Cup.
