President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Super Eagles on their emphatic 4-1 victory over Gabon in today’s FIFA World Cup qualifying Africa playoff match, urging the team to build on the victory and remain focused.
He described the Super Eagles performance
as a clear expression of the Nigerian character that rises, adapts, and prevails.
President Tinubu noted that the team played with courage, balance, and precision, and reminded the country that football has always been one of Nigeria’s most potent symbols of unity and shared pride.
He stated that the victory adds fresh momentum to the national spirit and strengthens the collective resolve to secure a place at the World Cup.
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President Tinubu commended the players, the coaching staff, and the entire technical and administrative crew for their unwavering commitment to the national cause, adding that the dedication has brought the national team victory.
He added that the victory reflects the deep pool of talent that Nigeria continues to produce and the determination of the Super Eagles to reclaim their place among the continent’s most respected teams.
The President also praised the millions of Nigerians at home and abroad who continue to support the team with passion and loyalty, emphasising that their energy remains a powerful driving force for the players, especially at critical moments of international competition.
In a message to the squad, President Tinubu reiterated the need for the team to build on this victory and remain focused on the remaining qualifiers. He stated that every match presents an opportunity to show discipline and character, and to prove again that Nigeria’s ambition is firmly within reach.
According to President Tinubu, “this is the true Nigerian spirit of resilience against all odds. Do not stop until you secure a qualification. Super Eagles, keep soaring. The nation stands with you!”
Details of the match
Victor Osimhen scored a brace in extra time as Nigeria defeated Gabon 4-1 on Thursday to qualify for the final of the World Cup playoffs in Morocco.
Eric Chelle made two changes to the side that defeated the Cheetahs of the Benin Republic 4-0 last month.
Stanley Nwabali retained his position in goal, with Calvin Bassey pairing with Benjamin Fredrick in front of him, while Osayi-Samuel and Zaidu Sanusi played as the full-backs.
Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Samuel Chukwueze took their places in the middle of the pack, while Akor Adams and Ademola Lookman were tasked with providing the ammunition for Victor Osimhen in the attack.
Nigeria started the game with intent and purpose, with Akor Adams missing an early chance to give the team the lead in the fourth minute.
The Gabon goalkeeper produced a stunning save to deny Victor Osimhen in the 21st minute as the Super Eagles created chances, but they were unable to break the deadlock.
Both sides failed to break the deadlock as the first half ended goalless.
The Gabonese started the second half with determination, and they rattled the Super Eagles, but they were unable to take advantage of their dominance in the early part of the restart.
Chelle made two substitutions in the 60th minute, with Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze coming off for Moses Simon and Chidera Ejuke.
The Super Eagles finally broke the deadlock in the 78th minute when Akor Adams took advantage of a mistake by a Gabonese defender to open the scoring for Nigeria.