Nigeria advanced to the CAF playoff final after a commanding 4-1 extra-time victory over Gabon in Rabat on Thursday, setting up a decisive clash with either DR Congo or Cameroon for a place in the intercontinental playoff.
The Super Eagles took the lead in the 78th minute when Akor Adams pounced on a defensive blunder to open the scoring.
Gabon, however, forced extra time with a late equalizer from Mario Lemina, whose deflected strike in the 89th minute made it 1-1 at full time.
In extra time, Nigeria took full control of the contest. Chidera Ejuke restored the advantage in the 97th minute, finishing neatly after being set up by captain Wilfred Ndidi.
Victor Osimhen then put the result beyond doubt, netting twice in quick succession — first with a precise angled effort in the 102nd minute and again in the 110th sealing a dominant 4-1 win for the Super Eagles.
Coach made key tactical adjustments, including introducing Onyeka for Adams in the 83rd minute and bringing on Awaziem and Ekong in extra time to stabilize the defense.
Despite making several substitutions of their own, Gabon struggled to find a way past Nigeria’s solid back line.
With this emphatic victory, Nigeria move within one step of the 2026 World Cup intercontinental playoff as they await the outcome of the DR Congo vs Cameroon encounter.