Nigeria Triumphs Over Gabon in Semifinal Thriller
Rabat, Morocco – Nigeria’s star striker Victor Osimhen scored a brilliant brace in extra time to secure a 4-1 victory over Gabon in the CAF World Cup 2026 qualifying semifinals, setting up a decisive playoff final against the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) on Sunday.
The Super Eagles had to dig deep after conceding a late equaliser in regulation time, with Osimhen’s 102nd- and 110th-minute strikes proving decisive. Nigeria had earlier taken the lead in the 78th minute through Akor Adams, before Mario Lemina levelled for Gabon in the 89th. Substitute Chidera Ejuke then restored Nigeria’s advantage in the 97th minute.
“It was a tense match, but we showed our resilience. Scoring in extra time and helping Nigeria reach the final is a huge moment for me and the team,” Osimhen said after the match.
Osimhen’s Impact
The 26-year-old Galatasaray forward was a constant threat throughout the semifinal. He came close to scoring several times in the first half, heading wide twice and seeing a potential handball appeal overturned by VAR. His clinical finishing in extra time showcased why he was named 2023 African Player of the Year.
Osimhen’s first goal was set up by Benjamin Fredrick, calmly slotting the ball into the far corner past Gabon goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba. Eight minutes later, he scored again after controlling a long pass and firing into the same corner, sealing Nigeria’s place in the playoff final.
Nigeria vs DR Congo: What’s at Stake
The winner of the CAF playoff final in Rabat will advance to the six-nation FIFA intercontinental tournament in March 2026. The African playoffs feature the four best group runners-up, with other teams already confirmed including Bolivia, New Caledonia, Iraq or UAE, and two teams from Central America/Caribbean.
Nigeria is aiming for a seventh World Cup appearance, while the DRC is chasing only its second, having last qualified in 1974 under the name Zaire.
DR Congo Edge Out Cameroon
In the second semifinal, DRC captain Chancel Mbemba scored a dramatic winner in stoppage time to beat Cameroon 1-0. The goal came in the first minute of added time, securing the Congolese side’s place in Sunday’s final.
The match against Cameroon was a tight affair, with few scoring opportunities. Manchester United striker Bryan Mbeumo missed the best chance for Cameroon, while veteran Cedric Bakambu was denied by DRC goalkeeper Andre Onana.
“It was a hard-fought match, and scoring at the last minute to take us to the final is unforgettable,” said Mbemba.
Key Moments in Nigeria vs Gabon
- 78’ – Akor Adams gives Nigeria the lead.
- 89’ – Mario Lemina equalises for Gabon.
- 97’ – Chidera Ejuke scores first goal for Nigeria.
- 102’ & 110’ – Victor Osimhen scores two crucial goals in extra time.
Despite some VAR controversies, including a denied penalty appeal for Gabon, Nigeria’s composure and attacking prowess ensured a comprehensive win.
African World Cup Qualifiers: Overview
Africa’s nine automatic World Cup spots were claimed by group winners: Algeria, Cape Verde, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, and Tunisia. The remaining four best runners-up compete in the playoffs, with winners advancing to the global FIFA intercontinental tournament, a final step before the 2026 World Cup hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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