Nigeria booked their place in the World Cup playoff final after a powerful 4–1 victory over Gabon, led by a stunning extra-time performance from star striker Victor Osimhen. The Super Eagles delivered one of their strongest displays of the qualifying campaign, keeping their 2026 World Cup dream alive.
The match in Rabat, Morocco began at a steady pace, with both teams playing cautiously. Nigeria struck first when Akor Adams scored in the closing minutes of regulation time. However, Gabon refused to give up. Mario Lemina equalised with a deflected shot in the final minute, pushing the match into extra time at 1–1.
From that moment, Nigeria took complete control. Substitute Chidera Ejuke restored Nigeria’s lead early in extra time with a composed finish, giving the Super Eagles the momentum they needed. Victor Osimhen then dominated the rest of the match. The Champions League top scorer produced two brilliant goals in each half of extra time, sealing a decisive 4–1 win for Nigeria.
The win sends Nigeria into Sunday’s playoff final against Congo. Congo secured their spot after a dramatic 1–0 victory over Cameroon, with captain Chancel Mbemba scoring in stoppage time.
The African playoff winner will earn a place in the six-team intercontinental playoff scheduled for March 2026. Two of those teams will qualify for the World Cup, joining nations from CONMEBOL, Oceania, and other confederations. Bolivia and New Caledonia have already reached this stage.
These African playoffs include the top runners-up from the nine World Cup qualifying groups. Group winners like Algeria, Morocco, Egypt, Ghana, and Senegal have already locked their World Cup berths.
Nigeria, who last qualified for the World Cup in 2018, now move one step closer to returning to the global stage. The team will look to carry this momentum into their crucial clash with Congo.
