Victor Osimhen Redeems Early Miss with Brace in Nigeria's 4–1 Victory Over Gabon
Victor Osimhen proved pivotal for Nigeria, scoring twice to lead the Super Eagles to a 4–1 victory against Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup CAF zone playoff held in Rabat, Morocco, on Thursday.
Despite missing a critical chance to secure the win in added time, Osimhen’s two clinical goals in extra time ensured Nigeria's progression to the playoff final set for Sunday.
Following their 2022 World Cup playoff elimination by Ghana, Nigeria has taken a significant stride toward reclaiming their spot on the global stage.
The match featured South African referee Abongile Tom and VAR oversight by Akhona Makalima—a decision that ignited controversy due to remarks from South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, expressing his disinterest in Nigeria qualifying.
This statement did not sit well with Nigerian fans, particularly considering the historical rivalry between the Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana, who competed in the same qualification group recently.
Referee Tom demonstrated early authority, issuing a yellow card to Nigeria's captain Wilfred Ndidi for a tactical foul preventing a Gabon counterattack.
Nigeria started strongly, with a cross from Akor Adams finding Osimhen in the box, but his header went narrowly wide. Osimhen continued to pose a threat, forcing Gabon goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba into multiple saves, including a spectacular denial of his low header.
Gabon, reliant on veteran forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, struggled to penetrate Nigeria’s high press, often remaining pinned in their half.
In an early second-half incident, Gabon requested a penalty after Bright Osayi-Samuel appeared to tug at Aaron Appindangoye’s shirt, but after reviewing the footage, referee Tom opted to continue play.
As Nigeria's rhythm faltered, coach Eric Chelle made key substitutions, bringing in Moses Simon and Chidera Ejuke to bolster their attack.
The breakthrough finally came when a misplayed back pass from Appindangoye allowed Akor Adams to score into an open net.
However, Gabon equalized late with a deflected long-range strike from Mario Lemina, catching goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali off guard.
Osimhen had another chance to secure the game during stoppage time but could only watch as the ball went wide.
In extra time, Nigeria regained control; Ejuke scored a powerful strike to reclaim the lead before Osimhen delivered, scoring two goals in quick succession to put the match beyond Gabon’s reach.
Nigeria will now face the winner of the match between Cameroon and DR Congo, with the playoff final scheduled to take place at Complexe Sportif Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan on Sunday.
The successful team from Africa's playoffs will proceed to an intercontinental tournament from 23–31 March 2026, determining the final two spots for next year’s World Cup.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!