Chijioke Gabriel
Nigeria’s Super Eagles reignited their World Cup dream with a dominant 4–1 victory over Gabon in a thrilling playoff clash at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, on November 13, 2025. The encounter, which went into extra time, showcased the Super Eagles’ resilience and attacking power as they overcame a late Gabonese equaliser to storm into the final round of the FIFA World Cup 2026 African Qualifiers.
The match began with both sides cautiously testing each other’s defence. Nigeria started with attacking intent, spearheaded by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, but Gabon’s organised backline held firm through the first 45 minutes. Despite Nigeria’s superior possession, clear chances were limited, and the first half ended goalless.
Nigeria’s breakthrough came in the 78th minute, when Akor Adams seized on a defensive lapse to slot home from close range, sending the Nigerian fans into celebration. The goal was a reward for Nigeria’s persistence, as they had pressed relentlessly for much of the second half. However, just when it seemed the Super Eagles were home and dry, Mario Lemina struck for Gabon in the 89th minute, capitalising on a loose ball to level the score at 1–1. The goal silenced the Nigerian bench and forced the match into extra time.
Extra time brought a dramatic turnaround in Nigeria’s favour. Chidera Ejuke restored the lead in the 97th minute, calmly finishing after a fine through-ball from midfield to make it 2–1. Then came the Osimhen show. The Galatasaray striker, who had been tightly marked throughout regular time, finally found his rhythm and delivered two decisive blows — one in the 105th minute and another in the 113th minute — to seal a comprehensive 4–1 victory for Nigeria. Osimhen’s brace underlined his class and leadership, while Ejuke’s energy and creativity in extra time gave the Super Eagles a much-needed spark.
Head coach Eric Chelle made key tactical adjustments that proved pivotal. His decision to push Ejuke and Lookman wider opened up Gabon’s defence, allowing Osimhen and Adams to exploit the central spaces. Nigeria’s midfield, anchored by Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi, maintained composure under pressure, while the defensive pairing of Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi neutralised Gabon’s counterattacks.
The win propels Nigeria into the final round of Africa’s World Cup playoffs, where they will face either Cameroon or DR Congo for a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It also marks a statement of intent from Eric Chelle’s men, who had been criticised for their inconsistent performances earlier in the qualifiers. For Gabon, the defeat was a harsh lesson in endurance. After fighting back late in regular time, they crumbled under the Super Eagles’ relentless pressure in extra time.
Across Nigeria, fans celebrated the victory. Social media buzzed with excitement, with supporters praising Osimhen’s leadership and Chelle’s tactical discipline. Many hailed the Super Eagles’ mental strength after nearly letting the game slip away in the dying minutes of regulation time.
Nigeria’s 4–1 triumph over Gabon was more than just a win — it was a statement of resilience and determination.
With Osimhen rediscovering his goal-scoring touch and the team showing depth and unity, Nigeria’s road to North America suddenly looks bright again.