Nigeria are still alive. Still fighting. Still believing.
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In a dramatic 2026 FIFA World Cup African Play-Off semi-final showdown played on neutral ground in Rabat, Morocco, the Super Eagles dug deep to secure a 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon. And once again, when it mattered most, Victor Osimhen delivered.
The Galatasaray striker shook off a frustrating 90 minutes to become the match-winner in extra time, scoring twice as Nigeria stormed into Sunday’s play-off final.
This was a night of nerves, resilience, VAR tension, and late drama. A night where Nigeria nearly lost control — and then seized it back with unmistakable authority.
A Nervy Start but Nigeria Show Early Intent
Nigeria entered the clash with intensity, pushing Gabon back and threatening repeatedly through Victor Osimhen, whose aerial presence troubled the Panthers’ defence early on.
The forward came agonisingly close several times — including a powerful header that demanded a spectacular save from goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba.
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There was also controversy: the Super Eagles appealed for a penalty after a suspected handball by Aaron Appindangoye, but South African referee Abongile Tom was unmoved.
VAR Drama Swings Both Ways
If Nigeria felt aggrieved in the first half, Gabon had their turn after the restart.
Bright Osayi-Samuel appeared to pull Appindangoye inside the box — and this time, VAR intervened. But after a long check, the referee once again waved play on.
The match simmered with tension, both teams feeling they deserved more than the scoreline showed.
Adams Breaks the Deadlock… Then Gabon Break Hearts
With 12 minutes left, Nigeria finally exploded into life.
A defensive blunder from Appindangoye gifted the ball to Akor Adams, who coolly rounded Mbaba to make it 1–0. The relief was palpable — the Super Eagles were almost there.
Almost.
Because in the 89th minute, Mario Lemina silenced Nigerian fans with a late equaliser that pushed the match into extra time. It was a dagger to the heart — and Osimhen felt it most, having squandered two big chances moments earlier.
Extra Time: Nigeria Unleash Their Killer Instinct
Extra time brought a different Nigeria — sharper, braver, more clinical.
Substitute Chidera Ejuke restored the lead in the 97th minute, finishing smartly after a clever pass from Wilfred Ndidi. The momentum shifted immediately.
And then, like all great strikers do, Osimhen rose when his country needed him.
Five minutes after Ejuke’s goal, he finally beat Mbaba with a crisp finish to make it 3–1.
Not done yet, he bulldozed through two defenders in the 110th minute before firing home his second and Nigeria’s fourth.
From frustration to redemption, Osimhen turned the game into a personal statement.
MVP of the Match: Victor Osimhen
It wasn’t his perfect night — but it became his unforgettable one.
Osimhen struggled early, missing big chances and cutting a frustrated figure. But elite strikers are judged on decisive moments, not half-chances.
And in extra time, Osimhen showed his world-class pedigree:
- 2 goals
- Relentless pressing
- Leadership under pressure
- Ability to break Gabon physically and mentally
His goals didn’t just win the game — they drained Gabon’s resistance. The Panthers, once spirited and tactically disciplined, unravelled after the Nigerian No.9 finally found his rhythm.
The Big Loser: Aubameyang’s World Cup Dream Ends
While Osimhen’s star rose, Gabon’s talisman Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang watched his last World Cup opportunity slip away.
At 36, this may be the end of the road for Gabon’s golden generation:
- Aubameyang
- Mario Lemina
- Denis Bouanga
- Bruno Ecuele Manga
- Didier Ndong
For years, they dazzled across Europe — but never carried Gabon to the World Cup. Their failure to reach the global stage now feels definitive, signalling a major transition for Gabonese football.
An era has ended.
What’s Next? Nigeria One Match Away from the World Cup
Nigeria now await the winner of Cameroon vs DR Congo in Sunday’s final.
One more hurdle.
One more battle for a place at the 2026 World Cup.
If the Super Eagles show the same spirit they displayed in extra time — and if Osimhen unleashes the same fire — Nigeria’s World Cup dream is well within reach.
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