President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the Super Eagles for their resounding 4–1 victory over Gabon in Thursday’s FIFA World Cup qualifying Africa Playoff clash, calling the performance a powerful demonstration of the “Nigerian spirit that rises, adapts, and prevails.”

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the team displayed “courage, balance, and precision” in Rabat, adding that football remains one of the country’s strongest symbols of unity and collective pride.

Tinubu said the emphatic win has injected fresh momentum into the nation’s push for a World Cup ticket and reinforced the shared determination to return to football’s biggest stage.

Predator! Osimhen on the way to scoring his second and Nigeria’s fourth of the night.

He commended the players, coaching staff, and the entire technical and administrative crew for their unwavering commitment to the national cause, noting that their dedication and discipline were key to Thursday’s success.

According to the President, the result is also a reminder of the depth of talent Nigeria continues to produce, as well as the Super Eagles’ resolve to reclaim their standing among Africa’s most respected football teams.

Tinubu also praised millions of Nigerian fans worldwide for their consistent passion and loyalty, describing their support as a vital source of strength for the squad, especially during demanding international fixtures.

Looking ahead, the President urged the team to remain focused and disciplined as they continue their qualifying campaign.

“Every match presents an opportunity to show character and prove again that Nigeria’s ambition is within reach,” he said. “This is the true Nigerian spirit of resilience against all odds. Do not stop until you secure qualification. Super Eagles, keep soaring. The nation stands with you!”

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It was a night of redemption and resilience for Nigeria in Rabat, Morocco, as the Super Eagles produced a stunning extra-time performance to defeat Gabon 4–1 and advance to the CAF World Cup playoff final.

After a tense 90 minutes that ended 1–1, the Nigerians came alive in extra time, firing three unanswered goals to book a place in the next round—where they will face the winner of the DR Congo versus Cameroon clash for a spot in the intercontinental playoff.

The match began as a frustrating contest for Nigeria, who dominated possession and spent long spells in Gabon’s half but could not find a breakthrough.

Their persistence finally paid off in the 78th minute when Akor Adams, hero of Nigeria’s earlier 2-1 away win against Lesotho,  pounced on a defensive error to give Nigeria a deserved lead.

However, just as the Super Eagles seemed set to close out the game, Gabon equalized in the 89th minute through Mario Lemina, whose deflected shot left goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali helpless and sent the match into extra time.

Nigeria then shifted gears, showing their quality and depth. Chidera Ejuke restored the advantage in the 97th minute after a clever buildup involving Wilfred Ndidi.

Moments later, Victor Osimhen—who had been tightly marked all night—sprang to life with two brilliant goals in quick succession. His angled strike in the 102nd minute made it 3–1, and his composed finish in the 110th minute sealed the 4–1 triumph.

Coach Eric Chelle’s substitutions paid off handsomely, with Onyeka coming in for Adams to strengthen midfield control, while Awaziem and Ekong were introduced late to shore up the defense. Gabon’s tactical changes could not unlock Nigeria’s well-organized backline.

With this victory, Nigeria moved a step closer to securing a return to the FIFA World Cup stage. The Super Eagles now await the outcome of the DR Congo vs Cameroon fixture to determine their final opponent in the CAF playoff decider.

Scorers for Nigeria: Akor Adams (78’), Chidera Ejuke (97’), Victor Osimhen (102’, 110’)
Scorer for Gabon: Mario Lemina (89’)

Next Stop: CAF Playoff Final – Nigeria vs DR Congo/Cameroon on Sunday.

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Just hours before kickoff of the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash between Nigeria and Gabon, Gabonese news outlet, L’Union has announced that FIFA has offereda major incentive for supporters — free entry to the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat this evening.

According to the publication, there is an online link granting fans free access to the match venue. It announced that Gabonese residents in Morocco, especially those based in Rabat, should register for the free ticket via https://surl.li/hzkqft.

Sports Village Square could not guarantee the safety of the link. L’Union pointed out that successful registration provides personalized access to the stadium for what is expected to be a high-stakes battle on the road to the 2026 World Cup.

Also, the Gabonese Press Agency (AGP), added that the crowd could play a decisive role: “While the outcome on the field remains uncertain, the team with the most supporters in the stands could benefit from crucial motivation,” AGP noted.

More than 3,000 Gabonese fans, many of them students, are expected to turn up in festive colours to spur on the Gabonese Panthers.

The Super Eagles, however, will not lack support either, with Morocco hosting a sizeable Nigerian community ready to fill their section with energy and chants for the three-time African champions.

The winner of Thursday’s showdown will face the victor of the Cameroon vs. Democratic Republic of Congo fixture on Sunday.

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