Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered a thrilling 4-1 extra time victory over Gabon in Rabat, showing character, resilience and attacking firepower after conceding a late equaliser in the 89th minute. What looked like a heartbreaking collapse turned into a commanding extra-time performance, with Chidera Ejuke restoring Nigeria’s lead before Victor Osimhen struck twice to seal a decisive win. Earlier in normal time, Akor Adams had opened the scoring with a well-taken finish. The result not only lifted the team’s spirits but also reaffirmed Nigeria’s pedigree as one of Africa’s strongest footballing nations.
With the win, Nigeria now advances to Sunday’s play-off final against DR Congo, a match that carries huge stakes. Victory on Sunday will send the Super Eagles into the inter-confederation play-offs scheduled for March 2026, placing them one step away from booking a spot at the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup. It is not yet a direct ticket, but it puts Nigeria into the final qualification window where a two-legged clash could secure their place on the global stage.
Nigeria’s history at the World Cup amplifies the significance of this moment. Having appeared at six editions - 1994, 1998, 2002, 2010, 2014 and 2018, and reaching the Round of 16 three times, the Super Eagles are accustomed to performing on the world stage. Missing out on Qatar 2022 still lingers, making this campaign a crucial opportunity for redemption and for the new generation of talent to stamp their authority.
Thursday’s match also revealed the players who could define Nigeria’s path forward. Osimhen once again underlined why he is regarded as one of the world’s most dangerous forwards, combining power, movement and clinical finishing. His extra-time double was the decisive factor. Chidera Ejuke’s energy, penetration and goal made him one of the standout performers, while Akor Adams looked sharp and instinctive in the box. These players, along with the pacey wide attackers and ball-winning midfielders and defenders, will be crucial on Sunday.
Going into these playoffs, Nigeria’s FIFA ranking placed them among Africa’s top contenders, reflecting both their heritage and recent improvements. That status increases expectations, but also adds pressure to execute properly in the final.
Sunday’s showdown will demand tactical intelligence. To beat DR Congo, Nigeria must control the midfield tempo, preventing the Congolese side from turning the game into a physical, fragmented battle. Quick transitions will be essential, using the speed of Nigeria’s wingers to stretch the defence and create space for Osimhen. Set-piece concentration must be at its highest, as DR Congo have shown strength in late-game aerial situations. The Super Eagles will also need smart rotation to keep legs fresh, given the short turnaround since the Gabon match.
Against DR Congo specifically, Nigeria should avoid unnecessary fouls in dangerous areas, remain compact in defensive shape and use calculated pressing triggers rather than continuous high pressure. The flanks may offer the best attacking routes, with early crosses and cutbacks likely to trouble DR Congo’s defensive line. Above all, Nigeria must maintain emotional control and avoid lapses in the closing stages, where their opponents have often proven opportunistic.
If the Super Eagles rise to the occasion on Sunday, they move within touching distance of returning to the World Cup, a stage where Nigerian football has historically shone brightest. The victory over Gabon was a reminder of the team’s fighting spirit; the final against DR Congo will determine whether that spirit can carry them to within one step of global football’s biggest event.
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