Nigeria thrash Gabon to reach African World Cup playoffs final

The Super Eagles have qualified for the final of the African playoffs for the 2026 World Cup. 

The team defeated Gabon 4-1 in the semi-final of the mini-tourney at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat on Thursday.

Victor Osimhen scored a brace, Chidera Ejuke and Akor Adams grabbed a goal each as Nigeria left their clinical best till late into extra time.

The brace increased Osimhen’s tally with Eagles to 31, just six behind Rashidi Yekini as Nigeria’s all-time goalscorer.

Controversies marred Nigeria’s preparations for the match, with players boycotting one of their training sessions in protest over unpaid allowances.

Despite the drama off the pitch, the team showed little trouble when they lined up against the Panthers.

Osimhen had three big chances within the first 30 minutes: One powerful header was parried by Loyce Mbaba, the Gabonese goalkeeper; another sailed wide; and he uncharacteristically swiped another opportunity off target.

Akor Adam, who partnered with Osimhen in attack, also saw his early effort saved by the impressive Mbaba.

The Gabonese goalkeeper looked unbeatable until the 78th minute, when a loose pass fell for Akor, who raced past the Mbaba and placed the ball into an empty net.

The goal was Akor’s second goal for Nigeria, and the team looked set to progress into the final.

But Mario Lemina struck back for Gabon in the 89th minute to take the match into extra time.

Within another 30 minutes, Nigeria put three past the previously impregnable Gabon defence.

Chidera Ejuke helped himself to his first goal for the Eagles, and then came Osimhen with his match-sealing brace.

Nigeria will face either Congo DR or Cameroon in the final of the African playoffs on Sunday.

The winners will clinch the sole slot to represent Africa at the intercontinental playoff.