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Nigeria’s Super Eagles rose to the challenge in Rabat, Morocco, to produce a a sterling stunning extra-time performance, beating Gabon 4–1 and advance to the CAF World Cup playoff final.
After a tense 90 minutes that ended 1–1, the Nigerians came alive in extra time, firing three unanswered goals to book a place in the next round—where they will face the winner of the DR Congo versus Cameroon clash for a spot in the intercontinental playoff.
The match began as a frustrating contest for Nigeria, who dominated possession and spent long spells in Gabon’s half but could not find a breakthrough.
Their persistence finally paid off in the 78th minute when Akor Adams, hero of Nigeria’s earlier 2-1 away win against Lesotho, pounced on a defensive error to give Nigeria a deserved lead.
However, just as the Super Eagles seemed set to close out the game, Gabon equalized in the 89th minute through Mario Lemina, whose deflected shot left goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali helpless and sent the match into extra time.
Nigeria then shifted gears, showing their quality and depth. Chidera Ejuke restored the advantage in the 97th minute after a clever buildup involving Wilfred Ndidi.
Moments later, Victor Osimhen—who had been tightly marked all night—sprang to life with two brilliant goals in quick succession. His angled strike in the 102nd minute made it 3–1, and his composed finish in the 110th minute sealed the 4–1 triumph.
Coach Eric Chelle’s substitutions paid off handsomely, with Onyeka coming in for Adams to strengthen midfield control, while Awaziem and Ekong were introduced late to shore up the defense. Gabon’s tactical changes could not unlock Nigeria’s well-organized backline.
With this victory, Nigeria moved a step closer to securing a return to the FIFA World Cup stage. The Super Eagles now await the outcome of the DR Congo vs Cameroon fixture to determine their final opponent in the CAF playoff decider.
Credit: sports village square
