Victor Osimhen scored twice as the Super Eagles of Nigeria secured an emphatic 4–1 extra-time victory over the Panthers of Gabon to advance to the next playoff stage of the 2026 FIFA 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 period, capitalizing on a defensive error to give Nigeria the lead.
Gabon, however, equalized four minutes from time, forcing the game into extra time.
In the additional period, Chidera Ejuke restored Nigeria’s advantage with a composed finish before Osimhen took charge, netting twice to put the result beyond doubt.
At the back, Benjamin Frederick and Calvin Bassey marshaled the defence superbly, ensuring Gabon’s late attacking efforts came to nothing.
The win moves Nigeria a step closer to the 2026 World Cup, with the final playoff round set to determine their qualification.
The Super Eagles had earlier secured one of the top runners-up spots in the African qualifiers, buoyed by a dominant 4–0 win over Benin Republic, a game in which Osimhen grabbed a memorable hat-trick.
Gabon, meanwhile, finished second in Group F behind Ivory Coast to earn their playoff berth.
Nigeria will now face either Cameroon or the Democratic Republic of Congo on November 16, with the winner advancing to the intercontinental playoff for a place at the World Cup.
