Victor Osimhen almost went from being a hero to a villain on Thursday, in Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup Playoff 4-1 victory over Gabon in Morocco. The Galatasaray striker, who was one of the talking points for Gabon coach Thierry Mouyouma ahead of the clash.
The Galatasaray star was kept quiet in the first half and in what was the final kick of the second half, the former African footballer of the year missed a one-on-one situation with Gabonese goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba in what was the final kick of the game before the centre referee sounded the final whistle for extra-time.
However, he would score twice to inspire the Eagles to victory over Gabon in extra time, to secure Nigeria’s place in the play-off final. Akor Adams put Nigeria ahead in the 78th minute, but just as the Super Eagles seemed poised for a 1-0 win, Mario Lemina struck for Gabon in the 89th minute, sending the match into extra time.
In extra time, Nigeria regained the lead when substitute Chidera Ejuke scored his first goal for the Super Eagles after 97 minutes. Osimhen, who squandered a great chance to win the match at the end of regular time, firing wide with only goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba to beat, atoned on 102 minutes, firing across goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba into the far corner after being set up by Benjamin Fredrick.
He struck again on 110 minutes, controlling a long pass before once again beating Mbaba with a shot into the far corner.
Nigeria will play in the African final on Sunday, with a place in six-nation inter-continental play-offs next March up for grabs. The two winners of finals in the tournament will qualify for the World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Bolivia and New Caledonia have already secured slots. Nigeria sprang a pre-match surprise by leaving regular captain and centre-back William Troost-Ekong on the bench with Besiktas midfielder Wilfred Ndidi wearing the armband.
