Nigeria's Super Eagles kept their World Cup hopes alive after beating Gabon's Panthers in the World Cup Playoff semi final ok Thursday evening, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The West African giants defeated Gabon 4-1 after the encounter went into extra time at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
In the first half, the Super Eagles dominated creating chances, but couldn't turn any to a goal as the the half came to an end.
The second half saw Coach Eric Chelle bring in Moses Simon and Chidera Ejuke for Samuel Chukwueze and Ademola Lookman at the hour mark.
And 78 minutes of holding on, the Gabonese defense caved in after Akor Adams reacted quickest to a back pass hand Nigeria the lead in Rabat.
Nigeria were closing in on a place in the CAF play-off final and the opportunity to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, but Mario Lemina deflected effort wrongfooted Stanley Nwabali and brought Gabon level on 89 minutes.
The match moved to extra time after it ended 1-1 after 90 minute and added time.
Chidera Ejuke eased off pressure for the Super Eagles after restoring the lead and Victor Osimhen may just have sent Nigeria through to the CAF play-off final.
Ejuke's first goal for his country restored their lead against Gabon in extra time of their semi-final — Osimhen soon doubled the advantage with a low driven finish.
Nigeria's World Cup hopes are set to remain for the next few days...