Osimhen Inspires Nigeria to Extra-Time Thriller Over Gabon
Nigeria are one step away from a return to the World Cup after a dramatic 4-1 extra-time win over Gabon in Rabat sent them into the final of the African play-offs for the 2026 tournament.
Super Eagles soar in extra time
After a tense 90 minutes ended 1-1, the Super Eagles found another gear in extra time. Chidera Ejuke fired Nigeria ahead before Victor Osimhen — who had missed a golden chance late in regular time — redeemed himself with a stunning strike.
The Napoli star tore off his protective face mask and shirt in celebration, his emotion clear after a rollercoaster performance. Osimhen then added another in the second period of extra time to secure a 4-1 victory and book Nigeria’s spot in the play-off final.
Late drama before extra-time heroics
Nigeria looked to have done enough in regulation time when Akor Adams capitalised on a defensive mistake to make it 1-0 in the 78th minute. But Gabon refused to give up — Mario Lemina’s deflected strike in the 89th minute sent the tie to extra time.
From there, Nigeria’s finishing power proved too much for the Panthers. Despite Gabon’s appeals for a second-half penalty being turned down after a lengthy VAR review, they struggled to create clear chances, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Denis Bouanga well contained by a strong Nigerian defence.
Chelle’s unbeaten run continues
Head coach Eric Chelle, appointed in January, extended his unbeaten start and has guided Nigeria through a turbulent campaign that included off-field disputes and late drama in qualifying.
The win moves Nigeria into Sunday’s play-off final, where they will face either Cameroon or DR Congo for a spot in the intercontinental qualifier next March — the final step toward securing a place at the 2026 World Cup.
