It was an evening of high emotion and high stakes as Nigeria edged past Gabon 4‑1 after extra time at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in the final African play‑off for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Super Eagles entered the fixture under pressure, yet emerged with confidence restored.
Nigeria began aggressively, dominating possession and probing the visitors’ back‑line, but despite early promise, clear chances were scant. Gabon, disciplined and compact, absorbed the pressure and looked dangerous on the break with their experienced front‑line. For long stretches the scoreboard remained untouched.
In the 78th minute Nigeria broke through when Akor Adams picked his spot from close range, lashing home to spark jubilant scenes in the stands. But Gabon responded in the 89th minute when Mario Lemina surged into the box and fired home the leveller, nudging the tie into extra time and giving the Panthers hope.
Extra time saw Nigeria seize control. Chidera Ejuke fired them back into the lead early in the added period, capitalising on a swift counter‑attack and shifting the momentum dramatically. Gabon’s legs appeared to tire and Nigeria sensed the opportunity to finish the contest.
Osimhen scored in the 102nd and 110th minutes. Osimhen’s first was a composed finish after collecting a clever pass in the box; the second was a demonstration of his predatory instincts as he latched onto a loose ball to slam home a final goal that sealed the scoreline. Meanwhile goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali marshalled the defence effectively, making crucial saves in extra time to preserve the advantage.
For Nigeria, the victory sends them into the final African play‑off round, keeping alive their quest for World Cup qualification. For Gabon, the exit is harsh, albeit the performance carried worthy merit. The Super Eagles showed grit, tactical nous and attacking thrust when it mattered most.
