'We are together' - Chukwueze credits unity for Nigeria's big win v Gabon, focused on Sunday's final

Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze has expressed his satisfaction following Nigeria's 4–1 extra-time triumph over Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff semi-final, while stressing that full attention must now shift to Sunday’s decisive final match.

Nigeria sealed the win in Morocco with a dominant extra-time display, scoring three unanswered goals to secure a place in the playoff final. 

Speaking after the match, Chukwueze said the team would allow themselves a brief moment of celebration before returning to full preparation mode.

"For now we have to celebrate a little bit and focus for the next game on Sunday," Chukwueze told Victor Modo.

"The Sunday game is more important. We have won today and all heads on Sunday.”

Chukwueze was asked about the resilience shown by the team and the attacking improvements that have produced four goals in consecutive matches.

He responded by pointing to the squad's unity and collective effort.

"Yeah, because the team worked together and we are together. We are together and the most important thing is that the coach believes in us.

"We have been working through this from March, if I'm not mistaken, and they have been paying us. This is the time for us to focus and give everything."

The winger also delivered an encouraging message to supporters, many of whom believe Nigeria can secure a return to the Fifa World Cup after missing out on Qatar 2022.

When asked what he would tell fans who feel qualification is within reach, Chukwueze urged them to keep faith with the squad.

"I think they should keep believing and they should keep dreaming. They should believe in this team."

Nigeria now shift focus to Sunday's decisive playoff final against DR Congo, where a victory will secure a place in the intercontinental playoffs set for March 2026.

Wale Adejumo

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