World Cup dream alive as Super Eagles crush Gabon 4-1

By Tosin Omojola –

Nigeria proved too strong for Gabon as the Super Eagles thrashed the Gabonese national team 4-1 to keep their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup alive.

The first semi-final of the 2026 World Cup qualifier playoff, played in Rabat on Thursday night, saw Gabon challenge the star-studded Eagles before ultimately succumbing in extra time.

After 90 minutes, the score was tied 1-1, forcing an extra 30 minutes in which the Eric Chelle-tutored Eagles scored three goals to secure victory.

Nigeria initially took the lead in the 78th minute through Akor Adams, who capitalised on a defensive error by the Gabonese.

Gabon equalised in the 89th minute, and the Eagles had a chance to retake the lead deep into added time, but Victor Osimhen missed a one-on-one opportunity with only the Gabonese goalkeeper to beat.

However, Nigeria turned the game around in extra time, with Chidera Ejuke restoring the lead in the 97th minute.

Osimhen redeemed himself by scoring a brace in the 102nd and 109th minutes, sealing a 4-1 win and sending Nigeria to the final of the playoff.

The Super Eagles will face the winner of the second semi-final tie between Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo.