2026 World Cup playoff: Chidera Edjuke’s extra-time winner sends Nigeria through.

Nigeria reclaimed their advantage in extra time through a decisive strike from Chidera Ejuke, restoring a 2-1 lead over Gabon in the 97th minute of their 2026 World Cup playoff clash.

After being pegged back late in regulation time, the Super Eagles responded swiftly, punishing Gabon’s defensive lapse at the start of extra time.

The Panthers, buoyed by their late equaliser, committed numbers forward in search of a turnaround — but their attacking enthusiasm left gaps at the back, which Ejuke ruthlessly exploited.

The winger, who came off the bench to inject pace and energy into Nigeria’s play, capitalised on Gabon’s momentary disorganisation to fire home a composed finish, sending the Nigerian bench into celebration.

His goal swung momentum firmly back in favour of the Super Eagles, who had struggled to impose themselves after the Gabonese equaliser.

Gabon’s early promise quickly faded as their key attacking figures struggled to make an impact.

Captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was largely anonymous throughout, while Denis Bouanga and Loïs Openda failed to trouble Nigeria’s backline.

Despite periods of possession, the Panthers rarely found a way to test goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who enjoyed a relatively calm spell between the posts after the setback.

Noha Lemina, positioned deep in midfield, was one of Gabon’s few bright sparks. His intensity in duels and relentless pressing offered some control in the centre of the pitch.

However, coach Thierry Mouyouma eventually opted to replace the defensive midfielder in search of more creative options going forward — a tactical risk that ultimately opened up space for Nigeria’s counterattack.

Ejuke’s goal not only silenced Gabon’s resurgence but also reasserted Nigeria’s dominance in a tightly contested playoff encounter.

The Super Eagles, led by Victor Osimhen in attack, looked revitalised in extra time, using their physical advantage and superior depth to press high and dictate the tempo.

As the match entered the closing stages of the first extra-time period, Nigeria appeared determined to put the result beyond doubt, while Gabon — visibly deflated after conceding — struggled to recover their earlier rhythm.

Ejuke’s clinical finish underlined Nigeria’s resilience and attacking depth, keeping their World Cup dream alive as they pressed on towards the final whistle.