Nigeria kept their 2026 FIFA World Cup dream alive after edging Gabon 4-1 in extra time to book a place in the final round of the African play-offs on Thursday night in Rabat.
Goals from Chidera Ejuke and Victor Osimhen in the first period of extra time sealed victory after the game had ended 1-1 in regulation time.
Osimhen, who had earlier missed a golden opportunity deep into stoppage time, tore off his protective mask and shirt in jubilation after finally finding the back of the net. The Galatasaray forward doubled his tally five minutes later to put the result beyond doubt.
Nigeria had looked set for a routine win when Akor Adams capitalised on a defensive blunder to put Eric Chelle’s men ahead in the 78th minute. But Gabon hit back in the dying moments through Mario Lemina’s deflected strike to force extra time.
From there, the Super Eagles’ superior energy and precision shone through, as Ejuke’s strike and Osimhen’s brace sealed a statement win for the three-time African champions.
The victory sets up a mouthwatering final against DR Congo, who beat Cameroon to qualify for the next phase on Sunday at 19:00 GMT.
The winner will progress to the six-team intercontinental play-off in March, a final chance to secure qualification for the World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada.
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