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By Oscar Okhifo
Nigeria roared back from pre-match unrest to crush Gabon 4–1 in extra time, booking a spot in the African play-off final for the 2026 World Cup.
The match ended 1–1 after regulation time, forcing extra time, where Chidera Ejuke and Victor Osimhen scored in quick succession to put the Super Eagles in control.
Osimhen, who had earlier missed a clear chance deep into stoppage time, celebrated passionately after his first goal, removing both his face mask and shirt.
The Galatasaray forward doubled his tally five minutes into the second period of extra time, effectively sealing Nigeria’s victory.
Nigeria had briefly appeared set to win in regulation time when Akor Adams capitalized on a defensive error to score in the 78th minute.
However, Gabon’s Mario Lemina leveled in the 89th minute, with his shot deflecting off a defender, sending the game into extra time. Clinical finishing ultimately proved decisive, as the Super Eagles pulled away to secure a commanding win.
Coming off a period of unrest over unpaid bonuses, many Nigerians were anxious about the team’s performance, especially after missed training sessions and the frustration sparked by the Nigerian Football Federation’s delay in addressing the issue.
Despite these challenges, the Super Eagles delivered a resounding victory, giving their fans relief and reason to celebrate.
Nigeria will take on either Cameroon or DR Congo in Sunday’s African play-off final at 19:00 GMT, with the victor earning a place in the six-team intercontinental qualifying tournament in March, a crucial step toward securing one of the final two spots at the 2026 World Cup.
Congratulations to the Super Eagles for a dominant performance.