Dramatic playoff victory
Nigeria secured their place in the final of the African playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 4-1 win over Gabon after extra time.
Chidera Ejuke and Victor Osimhen scored in the first half of extra time after the match in Rabat ended 1-1 in regular time.
Osimhen celebrated with relief after scoring, removing his protective mask and shirt, following an earlier missed chance during stoppage time at the end of the regular match.
He added another goal five minutes into the second half of extra time, confirming Nigeria’s victory.
Nigeria, who looked strong throughout the semi-final, first took the lead when Akor Adams capitalised on a defensive mistake in the 78th minute.
Gabon equalised in the 89th minute with a deflected shot from Mario Lemina, sending the match into extra time. Nigeria then took control with decisive finishing.
Nigeria will now face either Cameroon or DR Congo in the African playoff final on Sunday at 19:00 GMT. The winner will advance to a six-team intercontinental playoff in March, which will decide the final two spots for next year’s World Cup.
