Osimhen Brace and Ejuke Strike Send Nigeria to African Playoff Final with 4-1 Win Over Gabon

Nigeria moved a step closer to qualifying for the 2026 World Cup after defeating Gabon 4-1 in the first semi-final of the African playoffs in Morocco on Thursday, PUNCH Sports Extra reports. Victor Osimhen scored twice in extra time, while Chidera Ejuke added another, following an earlier goal from Akor Adams.

Adams had initially given the Super Eagles the lead in the 78th minute, only for Gabon to equalize with a last-minute deflected shot from Mario Lemina. Nigeria regained control in extra time, with Ejuke opening the scoring before Osimhen’s brace sealed the victory and a spot in Sunday’s final.

Despite a bonus dispute with the Nigeria Football Federation just 48 hours before the match, the Super Eagles started strongly against the Gabonese Panthers. Zaidu Sanusi tested Gabon goalkeeper Marius Mbaba with an early free-kick, and Akor Adams later came close in a one-on-one chance. Victor Osimhen also had several attempts in the first half, including a header from Alex Iwobi’s cross that Mbaba pushed away and a shot that ricocheted off defenders.

Gabon began to settle midway through the first half, creating a few counter-attacks, but Nigeria’s defense held firm. Stanley Nwabali made a crucial save before halftime, keeping the scores level. The second half saw Gabon apply pressure early, prompting a VAR review for a potential shirt pull, but Nigeria was cleared. Coach Eric Chelle made key substitutions, introducing Moses Simon and Chidera Ejuke.

Nigeria capitalized on Gabon’s sloppy backpass in the 78th minute when Adams scored into an empty net. Gabon, however, forced extra time with a last-minute deflected strike from Lemina. In extra time, Ejuke scored first, followed by Osimhen’s two goals to secure a commanding 4-1 win.

The Super Eagles will now face the winner of the DR Congo vs Cameroon semi-final in Sunday’s playoff final. The victor will advance to the intercontinental playoffs in Mexico by March 2026, competing for one of the two World Cup spots allocated to the region.