The Super Eagles of Nigeria kept their 2026 FIFA World Cup hopes alive after a Victor Osimhen-inspired 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon in the semi-final of the CAF play-offs in Rabat, Morocco, on Thursday, setting up a decisive final clash against DR Congo.
The win means Nigeria will battle DR Congo in Sunday’s CAF play-off final for a place in the Intercontinental Play-Offs, after the Leopards secured a dramatic 1–0 victory over Cameroon courtesy of a 91st-minute winner from captain Chancel Mbemba.
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Nigeria began strongly in Rabat, dominating possession and creating early openings through Bright Osayi-Samuel and Osimhen, whose powerful header struck the post in the 17th minute. Despite sustained pressure, the first half ended goalless.
Akor Adams broke the deadlock early in the second half, pouncing on a loose ball to fire the Super Eagles ahead. But Gabon forced extra time with an 89th-minute equaliser from Mario Lemina.
Nigeria’s superiority showed in extra time. Chidera Ejuke restored the lead after a smart pass from captain Wilfred Ndidi, before Osimhen struck twice, his 30th and 31st goals for Nigeria, to seal an emphatic win and calm nerves after a turbulent week for the squad.
The Super Eagles will now face DR Congo on Sunday at the Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay El Hassan, with the winners advancing to the six-team Intercontinental Play-Offs in March 2026, which will determine the final two qualifiers for the World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
DR Congo, whose only World Cup appearance came in 1974 as Zaire, now faces a high-stakes showdown against Nigeria for continental supremacy and a step closer to the global stage.
