Nigeria’s Super Eagles gave their fans a night to remember after storming to a 4-1 extra-time victory over Gabon in Rabat. It was a match filled with nerves, heart, and pure African football passion as the team secured their spot in the African Playoffs final, keeping their 2026 World Cup hopes very much alive.
For supporters across Nigeria and the continent, this win felt like a sigh of relief. The Super Eagles have had a turbulent qualifying journey, but on this night, they showed grit, maturity and that unmistakable Nigerian flair.
A Slow-Burning Start Before The Fireworks
From kickoff, Nigeria looked like the stronger side. Wilfred Ndidi controlled the midfield like a seasoned conductor, spreading passes and setting the tempo. Victor Osimhen, who carries the hopes of millions every time he wears the green and white, came close twice in the opening half. His movement troubled the Gabonese defence, but the finishing touch just refused to come.
Despite dominating possession, Nigeria could not break the deadlock before the break, leaving fans at home chewing their nails and tweeting prayers.
Gabon Strike Late To Cause Panic
The second half brought more intensity, and Nigeria finally got their breakthrough in the 78th minute. Akor Adams capitalised on a poor Gabon pass and slotted home what many believed was the winner.
But football has a way of humbling even the most confident teams.
With just a minute left in regulation time, Mario Lemina stunned Nigeria with a dramatic equaliser. The Gabonese supporters in the stadium erupted.
Extra-Time Belonged Entirely To The Super Eagles
If Gabon thought they had a chance to turn the game around, Nigeria quickly shut the door. Substitute Chidera Ejuke made an instant impact, scoring his first-ever goal for the Super Eagles early in extra-time. That goal shifted everything. Then Osimhen took over.
The Galatasaray star added two brilliant goals in the 102nd and 110th minutes, taking his international tally to 31. He is now edging closer to breaking Rashidi Yekini’s iconic record of 37 goals.
Gabon’s Brave Run Comes To An End
This was a painful end for Gabon, who have never qualified for a FIFA World Cup. Their equaliser showed heart and ambition, but extra-time exposed their lack of depth against a more physical, more experienced Nigeria.
With their World Cup dream over, their focus shifts to the Africa Cup of Nations at the end of the year, which will also be held in Morocco.
Nigeria’s Focus Turns To The Final Step
Nigeria now prepare for Sunday’s African Playoffs final against DR Congo. The winner will travel to Mexico in March 2026 for the inter-confederation playoffs, where a place at the expanded World Cup is on the line.
For Nigerians, qualifying is more than a sporting goal. It is a national moment of pride. And after watching the Super Eagles fight with such determination, many believe this team is finally ready to rise again.
Source: SuperSport
Featured Image Source: Kickoff Magazine on X
Read more: Osimhen’s Nigeria set up World Cup clash with DR Congo
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