Nigeria’s Super Eagles sealed their place in the CAF playoff final after a thrilling 4-1 extra-time win over Gabon in Rabat on Thursday, setting up a decisive meeting with the winner of the DR Congo vs Cameroon tie for a spot in the intercontinental playoff.
The breakthrough came in the 78th minute when Akor Adams pounced on a misplaced back pass to put the Super Eagles ahead. Gabon, however, forced extra time after Mario Lemina’s deflected strike in the 89th minute levelled the match at 1-1.
Nigeria took full control once extra time began. Chidera Ejuke restored the advantage in the 97th minute, finishing off a move created by Wilfred Ndidi. Victor Osimhen then took charge, scoring twice before the break in extra time, an angled effort in the 102nd minute made it 3-1, followed by another goal in the 110th minute to secure the 4-1 win.
To maintain momentum, Nigeria made key changes, including Onyeka replacing Adams in the 83rd minute, and the introduction of Awaziem and Ekong in the 108th minute. Gabon also made several substitutions but were unable to breach Nigeria’s solid defensive setup.
With this emphatic victory, the Super Eagles move within one step of the World Cup intercontinental playoff as they await the outcome of the DR Congo versus Cameroon clash.
