Osimhen helps Nigeria advance to WC play-off final

Nigeria booked their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-off final with a 4-1 victory over Gabon in extra-time.

The Super Eagles' preparations for the semi-final were not smooth sailing as the players boycotted training on Tuesday over unpaid bonuses.

The first half did not provide any goals from both sides, although Nigeria's Victor Osimhen passed up two good headed chances.

After a scoreless first half, the Super Eagles broke the deadlock on 78 minutes courtesy of a composed finish from Akor Adams.

With the game heading for a Nigeria, win, Gabon popped up with an equaliser with two minutes left on the clock through Mario Lemina, who made no mistake with a powerful strike.

Nigeria needed just seven minutes into extra-time to restore their advantage thanks to a neat finish from Chidera Ejuke.

Osimhen extended the Super Eagles' advantage in the 102nd minute, before completing his brace eight minutes later to seal his side's spot in Sunday's play-off final.

Photo by Nsidibe Akpan/Gallo Images

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2026 Fifa World Cup Cameroon Democratic Republic Of Congo Gabon Nigeria