Nigeria has advanced to the African playoff final after securing a 4-1 victory over Gabon in a thrilling semifinal match. The game, which seemed destined for a penalty shootout, took a dramatic turn in extra time, with Nigeria’s substitute Chidera Ejuke and star striker Victor Osimhen scoring crucial goals.

The match had gotten off to a tense start, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. However, it was Nigeria’s Akor Adams who broke the deadlock with a late goal, only for Gabon’s Mario Lemina to equalize with a deflected shot in the final minute of regulation. The game was sent into extra time, where Nigeria’s momentum shifted decisively. Ejuke restored Nigeria’s lead, and Osimhen, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, netted twice to seal the win.

Osimhen, who was the top scorer in last season’s UEFA Champions League, cemented his status as Nigeria’s talisman with his impressive performance. His goals were instrumental in securing the team’s spot in the African playoff final. Nigeria will face the Democratic Republic of Congo, who eliminated Cameroon 1-0 in the other semifinal, on Sunday. The winner of this final in Rabat will earn a spot in the six-team intercontinental playoffs next March, where two final tickets to the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will be at stake.

The 2026 World Cup is expected to be a highly competitive tournament, with top teams from around the world vying for a spot. The intercontinental playoffs will provide an opportunity for teams like Nigeria to secure a place in the tournament. With their victory over Gabon, Nigeria has taken a significant step towards achieving their goal of qualifying for the World Cup. The team’s performance in the African playoff final will be crucial in determining their chances of advancing to the intercontinental playoffs.