The Super Eagles of Nigeria have advanced to the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff mini-tournament after an emphatic 4-1 victory over Gabon on Thursday evening.
Nigeria, who qualified for the playoffs as one of the best runners-up from the main qualifying series, faced a tough test against Eric Chelle’s men, who finished behind South Africa in Group C.
The Eagles dominated early proceedings but couldn’t convert their chances, and a moment of anxiety came when Bright Osayi-Samuel’s shirt pull was reviewed by VAR — though the referee waved off Gabon’s penalty appeal.
The deadlock was broken in the 78th minute when Adams Akor capitalized on a loose ball to slot into an empty net. Gabon, however, equalized 10 minutes later through Mario Lemina, whose deflected strike wrong-footed Stanley Nwabali.
Nigeria regained control in extra time as Chidera Ejuke finished off a clever pass from Wilfred Ndidi to restore the lead. Star striker Victor Osimhen then sealed the win with a late brace, putting the result beyond doubt.
With this dominant display, Nigeria will now face the winner between DR Congo and Cameroon for a place in the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March 2026.
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