By Ephraim Agbo
Nigeria survived a late scare and produced a ruthless extra-time finish to beat Gabon 4–1 (after extra time) in Rabat, advancing to the CAF playoff final. What looked like a nervy, tightly contested tie turned into a show of mental strength and clinical finishing once the match moved beyond 90 minutes.
For much of normal time both teams were cautious, probing without committing men forward. That deadlock was finally broken in the 78th minute when Akor Adams converted from close range after a defensive slip, giving the Super Eagles a narrow lead and forcing Gabon to chase the game. The Panthers answered with grim determination: Mario Lemina thumped in an 89th-minute equaliser to level and swing momentum dramatically before the break for extra time.
Extra time exposed the difference in squad energy and tactical clarity. Nigeria returned sharper and more purposeful; Chidera Ejuke capitalised in the 97th minute, threading a finish through tiring legs to restore the lead. Victor Osimhen then delivered the decisive blows — calm, composed finishes in the 102nd and 110th minutes — turning a one-goal advantage into a convincing three-goal margin. Osimhen’s brace underlined his role as Nigeria’s talisman: when opportunities mattered most he delivered with poise and ruthlessness.
Tactically, Nigeria’s success came from defensive organisation during regular time and timely offensive adjustments thereafter. The midfield, charged with regaining control after the late equaliser, managed tempo and transitions well; substitutions added fresh legs on the flanks and created the pockets of space that produced the extra-time goals. Fitness and bench management were decisive — Nigeria looked the sharper side as the contest stretched beyond 90 minutes.
The victory keeps Nigeria’s World Cup hopes alive and sets up a decisive tie against the winner of Cameroon vs DR Congo for a place in the next playoff stage. Beyond the result, the performance offered encouraging signs: resilience under pressure, a dependable goalscorer in Osimhen, and a squad depth capable of delivering when the stakes rise. For Nigerian fans it was both relief and statement — relief that the path remains open, and a statement that the Super Eagles can finish when it counts.
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