Nigeria triumphed 4-1 over Gabon after an intense extra-time battle, with Victor Osimhen scoring twice to lead the Super Eagles to a thrilling victory in Rabat.
The Super Eagles dominated early on, creating several chances through Ademola Lookman and Bright Osayi-Samuel, while Osimhen fired narrowly wide from close range in the 23rd minute.
VAR also cleared a handball appeal against a Gabon defender, as the first half ended goalless despite Nigeria’s sustained pressure. The Super Eagles’ defence stood firm against late first-half threats from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Openda.
Gabon began the second half stronger and nearly took the lead after a long VAR review for a potential penalty, but the referee eventually awarded only a corner. Nigeria responded by introducing Moses Simon and Chidera Ejuke, with both players adding fresh attacking impetus.
The breakthrough finally came in the 78th minute when Akor Adams capitalised on a defensive blunder from Appindangoye to slot home and hand Nigeria a deserved 1-0 lead. However, Gabon hit back late on as Mario Lemina’s deflected strike levelled the score in the 89th minute, forcing extra time after 12 minutes of stoppage time.
In extra time, Nigeria rediscovered their rhythm. Ejuke restored the lead in the 97th minute with a precise finish after Wilfred Ndidi’s clever assist. Moments later, Osimhen made it 3-1 with a stunning angled strike before sealing his brace in the 110th minute with another composed finish to put the result beyond doubt.
The Napoli striker was booked for removing his shirt in celebration, but his late heroics ensured Nigeria’s emphatic passage, with Gabon unable to mount a comeback.
The Super Eagles await either Cameroon or DR Congo in the final on Sunday.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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