Nigeria’s Super Eagles have booked their place in the final of the African play-offs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon in Rabat.
Chidera Ejuke and Victor Osimhen struck in the first period of added time after the match had ended 1–1 in regulation time.
The Galatasaray winger later added a second to ensure the Super Eagles’ passage into Sunday’s final.
Osimhen, who had missed a glorious chance to win the match in the 12th minute of stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes, ripped off his protective mask and shirt in celebration after finding the net.
Eric Chelle’s men had seemed on course to win in regulation time when Akor Adams pounced on a poor back pass to put Nigeria ahead in the 78th minute.
But Gabon found a late equaliser through Mario Lemina’s deflected effort in the 89th minute, forcing extra time.
Nigeria regained control in extra time, with Ejuke restoring the lead in the 97th minute. Osimhen added a third just after the restart to make it 3–1 and effectively end Gabon’s resistance.
Photo Credit: Poojamedia
Despite heavy rain in Rabat, Nigeria dominated much of the contest. Adams went close early on, while Osimhen missed from close range before Gabon goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba produced two crucial saves to keep the Panthers in the game.
There was controversy early in the second half when Gabon appealed for a penalty after Bright Osayi-Samuel was judged to have pulled Aaron Appindangoye’s shirt.
Referee Abongile Tom spent over three minutes consulting the pitch-side monitor and speaking with Video Assistant Referee Akhona Makalima before deciding against awarding a spot-kick.
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Gabon’s attacking duo of Denis Bouanga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who had scored 15 goals between them during the group stage, found little joy against Nigeria’s well-organised defence marshalled by Benjamin Frederick.
Photo Credit: Poojamedia
The victory extends Eric Chelle’s unbeaten start as Super Eagles coach. The Malian, who became the first non-Nigerian African to manage the team in January, is now one win away from guiding the three-time African champions to the expanded 48-team World Cup.
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Nigeria will face either Cameroon or DR Congo in Sunday’s (19:00 GMT) African play-off final. The winners will then advance to a six-team intercontinental qualifier in March, which will determine the final two spots for next year’s tournament.
