Super Eagles Soar Past Gabon, Eye DR Congo Challenge
Nigeria's Super Eagles delivered a commanding performance against Gabon, securing a 4-1 victory in the first semifinal of the 2026 World Cup African playoffs. The impressive win has boosted team morale as they prepare for their crucial encounter against DR Congo this Sunday.
Coach Eric Chelle described the Gabon triumph as the perfect confidence booster ahead of the decisive match that will determine which African nation advances to the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for next year in Mexico.
Chelle's Winning Strategy and Team Challenges
The path to victory wasn't without its obstacles. The Super Eagles faced internal challenges, including a team strike on the eve of the Gabon game and limited training sessions. These factors contributed to a slow start during the match before the team found their rhythm and dominated proceedings.
Goals came from Akor Adams, Chidera Ejuke, and a brace from Victor Osimhen, demonstrating the offensive firepower at Chelle's disposal. The coach emphasized that this performance reflects the identity he's building with the Nigerian squad.
"The reality is that our victory over Gabon is nothing yet, because in two days we have another game," Chelle stated pragmatically. "Maybe after the second game, we will go home with a smile."
Key Absences and Tactical Adjustments
The Super Eagles will face DR Congo without midfield anchor Wilfred Ndidi, who received his second yellow card in the series during the Gabon match and must serve a suspension. This presents a significant challenge for Chelle's tactical setup.
"Ndidi is an important player for us. His experience, ability and leadership on the pitch are important for this team," Chelle acknowledged. "But we will manage the situation. We have a large squad of players and we will make changes."
Potential replacements include Raphael Onyedika or Frank Onyeka, with the latter having impressed during extra time against Gabon. On the positive side, suspended center-back Semi Ajayi is now available for selection.
Dangerous Opposition and High Stakes
DR Congo, managed by French coach Sébastien Desabre, presents a formidable challenge. The Leopards last appeared at the World Cup in 1974 and are hungry to return to football's biggest stage.
Chelle warned about the threat posed by Chancel Mbemba, Cédric Bakambu, and Fiston Mayele, among other talented Congolese players. The Nigerian defense will need to be at their best to contain these dangerous attackers.
The match takes on added significance as several key Nigerian players, including Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, and Stanley Nwabali, are one yellow card away from missing the inter-confederation playoff should Nigeria qualify.
Under Chelle's leadership, the Super Eagles remain unbeaten in five competitive matches, with an impressive record of four wins and one draw, scoring 14 goals while conceding only four. Many Nigerian football enthusiasts believe that had Chelle been in charge from the beginning of the qualifying campaign, the team would have secured automatic qualification without needing the playoffs.
As the nation holds its breath, all eyes will be on the Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay El Hassan this Sunday, where Nigeria's World Cup dreams will either take a giant leap forward or come to a heartbreaking end.
