Olayiwola Matthew
Victor Osimhen scored twice as the Super Eagles defeated the Panthers of Gabon 4–1 in extra time to advance to the final round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs on Thursday at the Stade Mohammed V in Rabat, Morocco.
After a cagey first half, Akor Adams broke the deadlock early in the second half, pouncing on a defensive error to give Nigeria the lead.
Gabon, however, found an equaliser four minutes from full time, forcing the match into extra time.
The Super Eagles regained control when Chidera Ejuke coolly restored Nigeria’s advantage, before Osimhen sealed the win with two late goals to complete a commanding performance.
A resolute defensive pairing of Benjamin Frederick and Calvin Bassey helped Nigeria absorb Gabon’s pressure in the dying minutes.
The victory puts the three-time African champions within touching distance of a World Cup ticket, with the final playoff round set to determine their qualification for the 2026 tournament.
Details later…