Nigeria Set Up World Cup Playoff Final Against DRC After Extra-Time Win

Nigeria booked their place in Sunday’s World Cup African playoff final after defeating Gabon 4-1 in Rabat, overcoming both a players’ strike over money and a dramatic late equaliser. The Super Eagles were forced into extra time before eventually pulling away.

Akor Adams opened the scoring in the 78th minute, pouncing on a poor back pass from Aaron Appindangoye and finishing easily with goalkeeper Loyce Mbaba stranded. Just as Nigeria thought they had the game under control, Mario Lemina struck an 89th-minute equaliser to push the match into extra time.

Nigeria responded strongly. Chidera Ejuke restored the lead early in extra time, before Victor Osimhen took over with two decisive goals that sealed a comfortable final scoreline and sent the Super Eagles into the playoff final.

Their opponents will be the Democratic Republic of Congo, who edged Cameroon in the day’s second semi-final. Captain Chancel Mbemba secured the win with a dramatic last-minute finish, sneaking in at the back post to convert a corner from Brian Cipenga.

Sunday’s winner will advance to the inter-confederation playoffs in March, where six teams will compete for two spots at the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States.