Nigeria put a turbulent week behind them to defeat Gabon 4–1 after extra time in their World Cup African playoff semi-final in Rabat on Thursday.
The Super Eagles, who had boycotted training earlier in the week over unpaid bonuses, struggled to break Gabon down before Akor Adams punished a defensive error in the 78th minute.
Mario Lemina’s heavily deflected 89th-minute strike forced extra time, but Nigeria took full control from there.
Chidera Ejuke restored the lead seven minutes into extra time after a superb pass from Wilfred Ndidi, before Victor Osimhen struck twice first from a tight angle, then with a powerful finish after a clever chest control to seal progression.
Nigeria will face the Democratic Republic of Congo who also overcame Cameroon 1-0 last night in Sunday’s playoff final, with the winner advancing to March’s inter-confederation playoffs for a chance to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The match, played in heavy rain, saw Nigeria escape a potential penalty earlier in the second half after a VAR check on Bright Osayi-Samuel.
Osimhen also missed a clear chance in stoppage time before redeeming himself in extra time.
The victory capped a dramatic turnaround after the team’s brief strike was resolved on Wednesday.
