Nigeria Defeats Gabon 4-1 to Advance to 2026 World Cup Qualifying Final

The Nigerian national team has advanced to the final of the African World Cup qualifying playoffs for the 2026 tournament, following a convincing 4-1 win against Gabon in a semifinal match played on neutral ground in Morocco.

Despite a balanced start and strong defensive efforts from both teams in the first half, Nigeria broke the deadlock in the 78th minute with a goal from forward Akor Adams. Gabon quickly responded, equalizing with a goal from Mario Lemina in the 89th minute, forcing the match into extra time.

During extra time, Nigeria showcased their dominance, leveraging their physical advantage. Sidra Edjouke scored in the 97th minute, followed by two goals from star striker Victor Osimhen in the 102nd and 110th minutes, sealing the victory for the "Super Eagles" and their place in the final.

Nigeria will now await the winner of the match between Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to determine their opponent in the final. The winner of that match will secure the tenth African spot for the final World Cup qualifying playoff, which is set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 2026.