Nigeria boosted their chances of qualifying for the 2026
FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 4–1 victory over Gabon in extra time
on Thursday, with star striker Victor Osimhen scoring twice to seal the
win.
The Super Eagles, who are seeking a seventh World
Cup appearance, will now face the Democratic Republic of Congo in
Sunday’s African final, with a spot in the six-nation intercontinental
play-offs next March at stake.
How the Match Unfolded
Nigeria thought they had secured a narrow win when Akor
Adams broke the deadlock in the 78th minute. The Sevilla winger intercepted
a misplaced pass, rounded goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba, and slotted home to
give the Super Eagles a 1–0 lead.
But Gabon struck a late blow when Mario Lemina
equalised in the 89th minute. His effort deflected off a Nigerian defender,
wrong-footing goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and sending the match into
extra time.
Extra Time Dominance
Nigeria wasted no time regaining control.
In the 97th minute, substitute Chidera Ejuke
scored his first-ever goal for the Super Eagles, capitalising on a rebound to
restore Nigeria’s lead.
Osimhen—who had earlier missed a golden chance in
regular time—redeemed himself spectacularly.
The Galatasaray star made it 3–1 in the 102nd minute, firing a precise
low shot into the far corner after a clever pass from Benjamin Fredrick.
He struck again in the 110th minute, controlling a
long ball before burying another finish past Mbaba to put the game beyond
Gabon’s reach.
VAR Drama and Missed Chances
Before the late drama, Osimhen had threatened early,
heading wide twice and having a handball appeal dismissed after a VAR review.
Gabon had their own VAR moment when a shirt-pull by Bright
Osayi-Samuel on Aaron Appindangoye was checked extensively, but
South African referee Abongile Tom waved away their penalty claims.
Tactical Surprises
Nigeria made an unexpected pre-match decision by
benching regular captain William Troost-Ekong. Midfielder Wilfred
Ndidi wore the captain’s armband instead.
Another key substitute was Brentford’s Frank Onyeka,
whose decisive goal against Benin had helped Nigeria secure their play-off
spot.
What’s Next?
Nigeria will clash with DR Congo, who edged Cameroon
1–0, in Sunday’s African play-off final.
Two winners from the continent’s play-off tournament will qualify for the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Bolivia and New Caledonia have already secured slots in the intercontinental play-offs.
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