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!”

Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H

The Democratic Republic of Congo will face Nigeria in the African final play-off for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic late victory over Cameroon on Thursday night in Rabat, Morocco.

A stoppage-time winner from captain Chancel Mbemba sealed a 1-0 triumph for the Leopards at the Stade El Barid, ending Cameroon’s hopes of returning to the World Cup and confirming that Manchester United star Bryan Mbeumo will miss the 2026 tournament.

In a tense and rain-soaked encounter with few clear chances, both teams struggled to break each other down as extra time appeared increasingly likely.

Cameroon came closest in the second half when Mbeumo, in superb club form, was played through on goal but stabbed inches wide of the near post.

At the other end, DR Congo threatened through Cedric Bakambu, who forced a fine save from Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana, currently on loan at Trabzonspor. Theo Bongonda later fired over a promising opportunity for the Congolese.

Just when the game seemed destined for an additional 30 minutes, DR Congo found their breakthrough.

Former Newcastle United defender Mbemba drifted free at the far post and guided in a low finish from Brian Cipenga’s corner, sparking jubilant celebrations from Sebastien Desabre’s men.

The result means Cameroon — Africa’s most experienced World Cup team with eight appearances — will not be going to their ninth. Instead, DR Congo advance to what promises to be a fiercely contested play-off final against Nigeria, with a coveted ticket to the 2026 World Cup on the line.

Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H

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.

Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H