Nigeria’s Super Eagles have secured their place in the African World Cup qualifying playoffs final after a commanding 4-1 victory over Gabon in the semi-final clash yesterday.
The match, held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, started with both teams employing a cautious approach in the first half, resulting in a goalless stalemate at the break. However, the game came to life in the second half as Nigeria asserted their dominance.
Akor Adam opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 78th minute, giving the Super Eagles a crucial lead. Gabon responded swiftly, equalising just before the end of regular time when Mario Lemina found the back of the net in the 89th minute, sending the match into extra time.
As the game entered extra time, Chidera Ejuke restored Nigeria’s lead in the 98th minute, and just four minutes later, Victor Osimhen extended Eric Chelle’s side’s advantage with a well-placed shot, making it 3-1 for the Super Eagles and sending the Nigerian fans into raptures. Not content with that, Osimhen scored his second goal of the match in the 110th minute to seal the victory for Nigeria.
With this win, Nigeria has taken a significant stride towards their World Cup aspirations, while Gabon will be left to reflect on missed opportunities as they exit the competition. Nigeria will face the winner of the second playoff semi-final match between Cameroon and DR Congo on Sunday.
Nigeria will face DR Congo on Sunday in the African final, with a spot in the intercontinental World Cup play-offs on the line.
Meanwhile, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the team, describing their emphatic 4-1 victory over Gabon as a clear expression of the Nigerian character that rises, adapts, and prevails.
In a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu noted that the team played with courage, balance, and precision, and reminded the country that football has always been one of Nigeria’s most potent symbols of unity and shared pride.
He stated that the victory adds fresh momentum to the national spirit and strengthens the collective resolve to secure a place at the World Cup.
President Tinubu commended the players, the coaching staff, and the entire technical and administrative crew for their unwavering commitment to the national cause, adding that the dedication has brought the national team victory.
He added that the victory reflects the deep pool of talent that Nigeria continues to produce and the determination of the Super Eagles to reclaim their place among the continent’s most respected teams.
The President also praised the millions of Nigerians at home and abroad who continue to support the team with passion and loyalty, emphasising that their energy remains a powerful driving force for the players, especially at critical moments of international competition.
In a message to the squad, President Tinubu reiterated the need for the team to build on this victory and remain focused on the remaining qualifiers. He stated that every match presents an opportunity to show discipline and character, and to prove again that Nigeria’s ambition is firmly within reach.
According to President Tinubu, “this is the true Nigerian spirit of resilience against all odds. Do not stop until you secure a qualification. Super Eagles, keep soaring. The nation stands with you!”
