In the Moroccan capital of Rabat, the Super Eagles of Nigeria delivered a thrilling performance, brushing aside the Gabon national football team 4-1 to secure their place in the final of the African qualifying playoffs for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The victory ends a tense buildup and puts Nigeria one step closer to returning to football’s biggest stage.
First half – Cagey affair
Despite dominating possession and creating a number of clear chances, Nigeria found themselves locked in a goalless first 45 minutes. The Gabon defence remained resolute, and Nigerian attacks — including attempts by Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi — were denied by good goalkeeping.
There were even penalty appeals waved away after VAR reviews. The atmosphere grew tense as the minutes ticked by and the match remained scoreless.
Second half & extra‐time – The tide turns
- 78th minute: Nigeria broke the deadlock through Akor Adams, capitalising on a defensive error by Gabon.
- 89th minute: Gabon responded via a deflected strike from Mario Lemina, drawing the tie level and forcing extra-time.
- Extra time:
- In the 97th minute, Chidera Ejuke fired Nigeria ahead again after a slick move.
- Soon after, Victor Osimhen sealed the brace, scoring twice (103rd and ~110th minute) to wrap up a commanding 4-1 win.
What it means for Nigeria
This victory sends Nigeria into the final of the African qualifying playoffs, bringing the Super Eagles ever closer to securing a berth at the 2026 World Cup. For a team that faced internal challenges ahead of the tie — including bonus disputes and logistical concerns — the performance on the night offered a powerful reset.
The Nigerian supporters in Lagos and across the country can now dream again.
Key performers & moments
- Victor Osimhen: The star forward delivered when it mattered most — a brace in extra-time that broke Gabon’s resistance.
- Chidera Ejuke: Came on and scored a vital goal to restore Nigeria’s lead.
- Akor Adams: Opened the scoring at a critical moment to shift momentum firmly in Nigeria’s favour.
- Gabon’s early resilience: The Panthers made life difficult for Nigeria for much of normal time, and their equaliser late in the second half threatened to derail the Super Eagles’ campaign.
Looking ahead
Nigeria now await the winner of the other semi-final (Cameroon national football team vs DR Congo national football team) to determine their opponent in the final. A large Nigerian contingent will travel or tune in as the final step towards intercontinental qualification looms.
For now, though, it is time to celebrate. In the rough waters of World Cup qualification, Nigeria has shown that they can find their rhythm and soar.
