Nigeria strengthened their bid for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday as striker Victor Osimhen scored twice to inspire the Super Eagles to a 4-1 victory over Gabon in extra time, securing their place in the play-off final.
After a tense first half, the breakthrough came in the 78th minute when Akor Adams capitalized on a defensive blunder to round the Gabonese goalkeeper and slot home Nigeria’s opener. Gabon, however, drew level in the 86th minutethrough Mario Lemina, forcing the match into extra time.
The Super Eagles took full control in the additional period. Substitute Chidera Ejuke restored Nigeria’s lead in the 97th minute, before reigning African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen sealed the win with a brilliant brace in the 102ndand 110th minutes.
With the emphatic win, Nigeria advanced to Sunday’s final, where they will face the winner between Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The victor of that encounter will move on to the intercontinental play-offs in March 2026, bringing them a step closer to securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
