Nigeria moves close to 2026 World Cup, thrashes Gabon 4-1

The Super Eagles of Nigeria boost their hope of making it to the 2026 World Cup by thrashing the Panthers of Gabon 4-1 in the final of the African play-offs on Thursday at the Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan in Rabat, Morocco.

Nigeria took the lead in the 78th minute through Akor Adams, who capitalised on a defensive blunder to put the Eagles ahead. However, Gabon fought back and levelled the score in the 89th minute when Mario Lemina slotted home from close range, forcing the match into extra time.

The added period belonged entirely to the Super Eagles. Chidera Ejuke restored Nigeria’s lead early in extra time before Victor Osimhen struck twice to seal a dominant 4–1 victory and send Nigeria through to the final round of qualifiers.

The win moves Nigeria closer to securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the final playoff round set to determine their qualification status.

Nigeria will now face the winner of the Cameroon–DR Congo clash in the final play-off round scheduled for March 2026.

Nigeria secured a spot among the top runners-up in the African qualifiers, buoyed by a dominant 4-0 win over the Benin Republic that saw Victor Osimhen net a remarkable hat-trick.