Nigeria Crush Gabon 4-1 to Advance in 2026 World Cup Qualification Playoff

Super Eagles Back in Flight

Nigeria’s Super Eagles produced a statement performance in Morocco, defeating Gabon 4-1 in the semifinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualification playoff. It was a show of intent from a team that had faced heavy criticism after missing out on direct qualification — and they responded in style.

Played at the Stade Prince Héritier Moulay Hassan in Rabat, the Super Eagles left it late and only dominated in extra time, combining pace, precision, and power to overwhelm a resilient Gabonese side.

Match Summary

Nigeria struck in the second half through Akor in the 78th minute, who took advantage of a mistake from the Gabon defense. Mario Lemina equalized soon after in the 89th minute with the help of a deflection that wrong-footed Nigeria's goalkeeper.

Regulation time ended with the game at 1-1, which was a fair result in a tight game.

Extra time started in a more lively fashion and it took only 7 minutes for Ejuke to put Nigeria ahead. This was the winger's first goal for the national team.

In the 102nd minute Superstar Victor Osimhen got on the scoresheet and he would go on to make it a brace 8 minutes later.

Tactical Breakdown

Nigeria deployed an attacking 4-3-3 setup that maximized the team’s pace on the wings. Ndidi and Iwobi controlled the midfield tempo, while the backline—anchored by Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi—handled Gabon’s counters with composure.

Gabon, to their credit, showed flashes of brilliance through Aubameyang and Lemina, but they struggled to match Nigeria’s physicality and pressing intensity late on in the match.

What’s Next

With this emphatic victory, Nigeria advances to the playoff final, where they will face the winner of Cameroon vs DR Congo for a coveted spot in the Intercontinental Playoff — the final step toward securing a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Super Eagles’ performance rekindles hope among fans and signals that Nigeria is ready to reclaim its place among the global elite.

Player of the Match: Victor Osimhen

Relentless, clinical, and inspiring — the Napoli forward reminded everyone why he is one of Africa’s finest talents.