Super Eagles Storm Past Gabon to Reach WCQ Final Stage

Nigeria produced a dramatic and dominant performance to defeat Gabon 4-1 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying semi-final clash on Thursday evening.

The Super Eagles, who had to dig deep after conceding first, turned the game around with clinical finishing and strong substitutions that shifted the momentum completely in their favour.

Gabon took the lead through Mario Lemina, who struck in the 89th minute, putting pressure on Nigeria as the match edged toward full-time. However, the Super Eagles responded almost immediately, with Akor Adams equalising in the 78th minute before scoring another late goal to restore hope for the home supporters.

With the game extending into extra time, Nigeria’s quality and depth became obvious. Substitute Chidera Ejuke combined with Wilfred Ndidi to score in the 97th minute, giving Nigeria the lead for the first time in the match. From that moment, the Super Eagles took full control.

Star striker Victor Osimhen delivered a brilliant brace in extra time. His first came in the 102nd minute after receiving a precise assist from Benjamin Fredrick, and he struck again in the 110th minute, this time set up by Chidozie Awaziem. Osimhen’s influence was so commanding that he picked up a yellow card while celebrating.

The match was also marked by several bookings, including cautions for Ndidi, Aubameyang, Obasogie, Moussounda, Nze, and Onyeka, as both sides battled fiercely for a place in the final stage of the qualifiers.

Nigeria’s substitutions proved decisive, with players like Moses Simon, Ejuke, Awaziem, Troost-Ekong, and Onyeka impacting the game. The result sends a strong message as the Super Eagles move one step closer to securing their place at the 2026 World Cup.