The striker made a comeback from outside the goal and hit the net twice as Nigeria won 4-1 in extra time.
The ranking was decided in extra time due to VAR controversy. Nigeria defeated Gabon 4-1 to advance to the 2026 World Cup Africa qualifying playoffs. In normal times, the home team took the lead with Eiko Adams, and Mario Lemina did not change anything. In extra time, Osimhen scored twice and Chidera Ejuke further extended Nigeria’s advantage.
In the final stages of normal play, the referee used VAR to analyze Gabon’s shirt tugging inside the area, but found no abnormalities in the movement. Nigeria is therefore waiting for the winner of the clash between Cameroon and Republic of Congo to find their next opponent. The African Repechage match is scheduled to be decided next Sunday (16th) at 4pm (Brasilia time) at the stadium. Moulay Hassan of Morocco.
Lack of aim and accuracy of attack
Despite the zeros on the scoreboard, the home side were the more dangerous side for the first 45 minutes. The bright Ossai-Samuel took a risk from the edge of the area, but caught the ball too low and sent it over the crossbar. Osimhen then hit a very dangerous header, but it went into the left side of Gabon’s goal as they got into the game and wanted to equalize.
Aubameyang was the away team’s most dangerous player and made some good runs, but the attackers lacked the accuracy to score goals. On the Nigerian side, Osimhen had three excellent shots from above, but his aim was poor and he lacked composure to hit the net.
Controversial and exciting to the end
After half-time, the visitors gave it their all, and one action caused a lot of controversy. After his shirt was pulled inside the area, the referee had to consult VAR, but did not hint at a possible penalty in favor of the Gabonese.
After this play, the game became increasingly tense, with few concrete chances, until Gabon’s defense caused havoc. Akole Adams took advantage of the opportunity, missed the goalkeeper and effortlessly found the back of the net.
The Nigerians held on to this result and made it to the play-offs, but Gabon dreamed again. However, Mario Lemina received it on the left side and aimed for a shot, which missed the defense and crashed into the back of the goal. Osimhen had two great chances in front of goal, but was unable to secure his place in normal times.
Nigeria qualified through extra time
However, in the first half of extra time, Chidera Ejukku received a good pass and scored it into the right corner, giving the home team an extended lead. Osimhen then hit a leg to make it 3-1, but was demoralized. Finally, the attackers showed their opportunism once again, taking advantage of passes inside the area and burying the net in the final stages.
world cup playoffs
In the World Playoffs to be held next March, a total of six teams will compete at one venue. There will be one representative from South America, one from Asia, one from Africa, one from Oceania, and two from North and Central America and the Caribbean.
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