Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle expressed his delight following Nigeria’s exhilarating 4-1 victory over Gabon in the semi-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs.
Sevilla striker Akor Adams opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 78th minute, giving the Super Eagles the advantage. The Panthers, however, responded late through midfielder Mario Lemina, who equalised in the 88th minute to push the game into extra time.
Nigeria reclaimed the lead when substitute Chidera Ejuke netted in the 97th minute, before Victor Osimhen scored twice to secure a comprehensive 4-1 win for the three-time African champions.
Chelle praised his squad for their determination and team spirit throughout the contest. “I am very proud of these guys (players) because every time they are focused on what I asked, what I want and it show what I want. The word today was the passion, during my speech it was about passion it was the working together to have the same thing,” Chelle said in his post-match remarks.
The Super Eagles now turn their attention to the final, where they will face the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday in a decisive match for a spot in the intercontinental playoffs.
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