2026 WCQ playoff Nigeria 4-1 Gabon: Five observations from Super Eagles' big win over Panthers

The Super Eagles have advanced to the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs after a commanding 4-1 win over Gabon on Thursday evening.

Akor Adams put Nigeria ahead in the 78th minute, punishing a defensive error from the Panthers.

Gabon pulled level in the 89th minute through Mario Lemina, who fired past Stanley Nwabali at the near post from the edge of the box.

However, extra-time goals from Chidera Ejuke and Victor Osimhen (2) sealed a deserved victory for Nigeria, booking their place in the playoff final.

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observations from the match.

Poor second-half display

The Super Eagles produced a lackluster second-half performance despite dominating the opening 45 minutes.

Nigeria controlled much of the first half and came close to breaking the deadlock on several occasions.

However, the team failed to build on that strong start after the break, allowing the Gabonese to take control of possession and create several dangerous chances.

Aubameyang contained by Eagles’ defence

The former Arsenal forward was tipped as one of the key players to watch for the Panthers ahead of the match.

However, despite his vast experience at the top level, Aubameyang found it difficult to make an impact as he was effectively contained by the Nigerian defensive duo of Benjamin Frederick and Calvin Bassey.

The veteran striker struggled to assert himself throughout the game, with the Super Eagles’ backline winning most of their battles against him.

Nwabali commits another costly error

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali will be disappointed with his role in Gabon’s 89th-minute equalizer.

The Chippa United shot-stopper was beaten at his near post by a strike from Mario Lemina from the edge of the box, failing to properly cover his angle, a lapse that will likely intensify the scrutiny he has faced in recent weeks.

Nwabali has been under pressure following his unconvincing display against Lesotho, with sections of fans calling for him to be dropped to the bench.

Gabon denied penalty after VAR review

The Panthers of Gabon were denied a penalty early in the second half after a VAR intervention.

Gabon believed they had earned a spot-kick when Alex Moucketou-Moussounda went down inside the box under pressure from Bright Osayi-Samuel.

Referee Abongile Tom initially waved play on but was later called to the pitchside monitor for a review.

After a lengthy check, the South African official opted against awarding the penalty, a decision that came as a huge relief to the Super Eagles.

Osimhen redeems himself with extra-time brace

Victor Osimhen finally came to life in extra time after an underwhelming display during the regulation 90 minutes.

The 26-year-old Galatasaray striker squandered several opportunities in normal time, including a last-minute chance to put Nigeria ahead.

However, he redeemed himself with a superb performance in extra time, scoring twice to seal a comfortable victory for the Super Eagles.

Adeyemi Adewale

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