Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has expressed profound gratitude to star striker Victor Osimhen after the forward's spectacular performance rescued Nigeria's World Cup qualification hopes in a thrilling 4-1 victory over Gabon during the playoff semifinal clash.
Nigeria's Dramatic Extra-Time Victory
The crucial match played on Thursday, November 13, 2025, saw Nigeria secure their place in the World Cup playoff final after an intense battle that required extra time to determine the winner. The three-time African champions displayed remarkable resilience after Gabon equalized late in regular time, ultimately dominating the additional period with three unanswered goals.
Sevilla's Akor Adams broke the deadlock in the 78th minute, marking his second goal in just three appearances for the national team. However, Gabon's Mario Lemina from Galatasaray leveled the score in the 89th minute, sending the match into extra time and putting Nigeria's World Cup dreams in jeopardy.
Osimhen's Match-Winning Performance
The extra period began with Sevilla's Chidera Ejuke repaying coach Chelle's faith by putting Nigeria ahead in the 97th minute after connecting perfectly with Wilfred Ndidi's pass. The momentum shifted decisively in Nigeria's favor when Victor Osimhen took center stage with his exceptional talent.
Five minutes after Ejuke's goal, the Galatasaray forward scored his first of the night to extend Nigeria's lead to 3-1. The striker then completed his brace in spectacular fashion during the 110th minute, dribbling past four Gabonese defenders before firing the ball into the net to seal the comprehensive 4-1 victory.
Coach Chelle's Heartfelt Appreciation
Coach Eric Chelle couldn't contain his admiration for Osimhen during the post-match proceedings. The 48-year-old tactician publicly praised the striker's crucial contribution, with their mutual respect evident in a viral social media moment that showed Osimhen tapping Chelle on the shoulder in appreciation during an interview.
Osimhen's impact on the Super Eagles has been transformative, particularly considering Nigeria's struggles during his absence from the squad. The team failed to record a single victory in their first four 2026 World Cup qualifiers without the prolific striker, highlighting his indispensable role in the team's success.
The 26-year-old has been in phenomenal form throughout the qualifiers, scoring six goals in just five matches, including a memorable hat-trick against Benin Republic. His consistent performances have made him the cornerstone of Nigeria's attacking strategy and World Cup qualification campaign.
Road to World Cup Qualification
With this impressive victory behind them, Nigeria now prepares to face the Leopards of DR Congo in the World Cup playoff final scheduled for Sunday, November 16. The winner of this crucial encounter will secure a coveted spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding immense significance to the upcoming match.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has already congratulated the Super Eagles for their emphatic victory, commending the team for embodying Nigeria's spirit of resilience and determination. The President urged the players not to relent until World Cup qualification is fully secured.
Coach Chelle maintained consistency in his squad selection, naming the same team that defeated Benin Republic 4-0 in their previous World Cup qualifier at Godswill Akpabio Stadium in October. The only change was necessitated by the suspension of West Brom defender Semi Ajayi, who received his second yellow card in the previous match.
As Nigeria approaches the final hurdle in their World Cup qualification journey, all eyes will be on Victor Osimhen to once again deliver when it matters most, continuing his remarkable partnership with coach Eric Chelle that has revitalized the Super Eagles' campaign.
