Photo Credit: Oyimzy/X

Nigeria moved to within one win of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a commanding 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon in the African playoffs semi-final on Thursday in Morocco.

A brace from Victor Osimhen and goals from Chidera Ejuke and Akor Adams secured the emphatic win for the Super Eagles, who pulled away after a tense 90 minutes.

Nigeria had taken the lead in the 78th minute when Adams finished off a flowing attack, but Mario Lemina’s late deflected strike forced the match into extra time.

Ejuke restored Nigeria’s lead seven minutes into extra time with his first goal for the Super Eagles. Osimhen then struck twice more, punishing Gabon’s tired defence and making up for earlier missed chances.

The result came despite reports of a pre-match bonus dispute within the squad.

Nigeria will now face DR Congo in Sunday’s playoff final after the Leopards edged Cameroon 1–0 in their own semi-final. Captain Chancel Mbemba scored the decisive 91st-minute goal, turning in a deep corner to stun the Indomitable Lions.

The winner will advance to the intercontinental playoffs in Mexico, keeping hopes alive for a place at the 2026 World Cup.