The Super Eagles of Nigeria have advanced to the final stage of the African section of the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-offs after a commanding 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon on Thursday in Morocco.
The match remained goalless through a tense first half, with both sides struggling to break the deadlock. The breakthrough finally came in the 78th minute when Akor Adams, who plies his trade with Sevilla in the Spanish La Liga, fired Nigeria into the lead.
Gabon, however, forced the game into extra time after Mario Lemina of Galatasaray struck a late 89th-minute equaliser to make it 1–1 at full time.
Nigeria regained control during extra time, with Sevilla winger Chidera Ejuke restoring the advantage in the first period. Moments later, talismanic forward Victor Osimhen extended the lead in the 102nd minute.
Osimhen, who plays for Galatasaray, went on to complete his brace five minutes into the second half of extra time, sealing a dominant win for Nigeria.
The Super Eagles will now face either DR Congo or Cameroon in Sunday’s final on November 16, as they push for a place in the inter-confederation play-offs scheduled for March 2026.
The winner of the African play-off final will move a step closer to securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.