- Akor Adams, Chidera Ejuke, and Osimhen’s brace seal Super Eagles’ 4–1 win
- Nigeria to face DR Congo in Sunday’s CAF playoff final
The Super Eagles strengthened their bid for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 4–1 triumph over Gabon in Thursday’s CAF semi-final playoff at Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
After a 1-1 stalemate in regulation time, Nigeria dominated extra time to secure a place in the final.
Both teams started the match with attacking intent, with Victor Osimhen leading Nigeria’s frontline and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang spearheading Gabon’s attack.
Despite several chances, the first half ended goalless.
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Drama unfolded in the second half when Gabon’s penalty appeal was overturned by VAR.
Nigeria finally broke the deadlock in the 78th minute after a poor back pass from Gabonese defender Aaron Appindangoye was intercepted by Akor Adams, who calmly slotted home.
Gabon leveled in the 89th minute through a deflected shot from Mario Lemina, sending the game into extra time.
In extra time, the Super Eagles took control—Chidera Ejuke restored Nigeria’s lead with a composed finish before Osimhen added a brace to seal the emphatic victory.
With the win, Nigeria advances to the CAF playoff final against DR Congo, who defeated Cameroon 1-0 in the other semi-final in Rabat.
The winner of Sunday’s final will move on to the intercontinental playoff in March 2026, where the final two spots for the expanded 48-team World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States will be decided.
