Victor Osimhen scored twice as the Super Eagles sealed an emphatic 4-1 victory over the Panthers of Gabon in extra time to advance to the next playoff stage of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Thursday at Stade Mohammed V in Rabat, Morocco.
After a goalless first half, Akor Adams broke the deadlock early in the second half, capitalising on a player’s error to put Nigeria ahead.
Gabon, however, equalised four minutes before the end of the match, forcing the game into extra time.
Chidera Ejuke restored Nigeria’s lead with a composed finish before Osimhen extended the advantage, netting twice to put the result beyond doubt.
The Super Eagles’ solid defensive display, led by Benjamin Frederick and Calvin Bassey, ensured Gabon’s late efforts came to nothing.
The win moves Nigeria closer to securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the final playoff round set to determine their qualification status.
Nigeria secured a spot among the top runners-up in the African qualifiers, buoyed by a dominant 4-0 win over the Benin Republic that saw Victor Osimhen net a remarkable hat-trick.
Gabon, meanwhile, finished second in Group F behind the Ivory Coast to earn their own playoff place.
Nigeria will go on to face either Cameroon or the Democratic Republic of Congo on November 16, with the victor of that tie advancing to the inter-continental playoff for a chance at a World Cup berth.
