Galatasaray forward, Victor Osimhen struck twice when it matters as the Super Eagles of Nigeria stormed past Gabon 4-1 to book their place in the final round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs.
The Super Eagles had to fight for the win after missing several chances in the first and second halves. Osimhen, who missed two clear one-on-one opportunities, made up for his missed chances in extra time with two decisive goals that sealed the win.
The super eagles opened the scoring in the second half through Akor Adams in the 78th minute after the Sevilla striker took advantage of a misplaced pass by the Gabon central defender, placing the ball into an empty net. Gabon refused to back down, equalising in the 89th minute through Mario Lemina, who pounced on a defensive mix-up, before his strike took a big deflection off Osayi Samuel.
The late equaliser only set up the super eagles to flare up, Second-half substitute Chidera Ejuke restored the lead in the 97th minute with a composed finish, after a good build up play from Wilfred Ndidi, sending the crowd into wild celebration.
Galatasaray striker, osimhen struck in the 102nd minute after a slick passing move orchestrated by Benjamin Frederick split opened the Gabon defence. The inform striker didn’t waste time, as he struck with venom into the bottom corner. He added his second eight minutes later, through a solo effort to make it 4-1 and put the result beyond doubt.
The win sends the Super Eagles into Sunday’s playoff final, where they will face DR Congo. The winner will earn a spot in the intercontinental playoff in March 2026, a decisive step toward qualifying for the World Cup.
