Nigeria reached the final stage of the 2026 World Cup playoff after beating Gabon 4-1.
The Super Eagles scored crucial late goals to secure a confident win in the semifinal clash.
The Super Eagles booked their place in the final stage of the 2026 World Cup intercontinental playoff after a strong 4-1 win over Gabon on Thursday evening. The match, which served as the semi-final of the mini-tournament, confirmed Nigeria’s readiness to fight for a spot at the global event.
Nigeria entered the playoff as one of the best runners-up in the African qualifying rounds, finishing behind South Africa in Group C. Eric Chelle’s team started the game with high energy and kept control for most of the first half. Despite their pressure, the Eagles struggled to convert their early chances into goals.
Gabon nearly took the lead when Bright Osayi-Samuel appeared to tug an opponent’s shirt inside the box. The incident was reviewed on the VAR screen, but the referee ruled that it was not enough to award a penalty.
The tense match finally opened in the 78th minute when Adams Akor reacted quickly to a loose ball and tapped it into an open net for Nigeria’s first goal. Gabon responded ten minutes later, with Mario Lemina’s effort taking a deflection before rolling past goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
In extra time, Chidera Ejuke restored the lead after receiving a simple pass from Wilfred Ndidi. The momentum stayed with Nigeria, and Victor Osimhen sealed the victory with two goals that put the result beyond doubt.
The Super Eagles will now face the winner of the match between DR Congo and Cameroon as they aim to secure Africa’s slot for the March 2026 intercontinental playoffs.
