Nigeria Secures Dramatic 4-1 Extra-Time Win Over Gabon

Nigeria advanced to the final of Africa’s 2026 World Cup play-offs after a thrilling 4-1 victory over Gabon in Rabat, Morocco. After a 1-1 stalemate following 90 minutes, Chidera Ejuke and Victor Osimhen struck during extra time to seal a dominant performance for the Super Eagles.

Osimhen celebrated his first goal by ripping off his protective face mask and shirt, a moment of relief after missing a late chance in stoppage time at the end of regulation. The Galatasaray forward then doubled his tally five minutes into the second half of extra time, ensuring Nigeria’s spot in the play-off final.

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Key Moments in Regulation Time

Nigeria had seemed poised to win during regulation after Akor Adams capitalized on a poor back-pass to give Eric Chelle’s side the lead in the 78th minute. However, Gabon fought back, with Mario Lemina netting a deflected equalizer in the 89th minute, sending the match into extra time.

Throughout the contest, Nigeria dominated possession and created numerous opportunities. Adams was denied early, while Osimhen headed narrowly wide from close range. Gabon goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba produced two brilliant saves to keep the Panthers in the contest.

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Extra Time Heroics

Extra time saw Nigeria assert their authority, with Ejuke opening the scoring before Osimhen’s second strike put the match beyond doubt. Gabon, despite having prolific scorers like Denis Bouanga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, struggled to create meaningful chances against Nigeria’s disciplined defense, anchored by 20-year-old Benjamin Fredrick.

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Nigeria’s Road to the African Play-Off Final

Nigeria will now face either DR Congo or Cameroon in the African play-off final on Sunday, with the winner advancing to the six-team intercontinental qualifier in March 2025, which will determine the final two spots for the 2026 World Cup.

The victory marks a significant milestone for Eric Chelle, who became the first non-Nigerian African to manage the Super Eagles in January. Chelle has revived Nigeria’s qualification campaign, remaining unbeaten in his tenure and silencing critics of his appointment.

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Overcoming Adversity

The Super Eagles’ path to this win was not straightforward. Nigeria only qualified for the African play-offs on goal difference, thanks to a 91st-minute strike against Benin in their final group match. Leading up to the Gabon clash, the squad also faced internal disputes, including a boycott over unpaid allowances and match bonuses.

Despite these challenges and persistent rain in Rabat, Nigeria delivered a composed and clinical performance, demonstrating the resilience and quality that could see them return to the World Cup stage for the first time since Qatar 2022.

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Stars of the Match

• Victor Osimhen: Scored twice in extra time, showcasing composure and finishing ability.
• Chidera Ejuke: Opened the scoring in extra time, providing the spark for Nigeria’s dominance.
• Benjamin Fredrick: Anchored the defense, neutralizing Gabon’s key attackers.