Nigeria will take on Gabon in the semi-finals of the African section of the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-offs, following the conclusion of the qualifying group matches on Tuesday.
President Bola Tinubu has already congratulated the Super Eagles on their emphatic 4–0 thrashing of the Cheetahs Benin Republic, applauding their determination in keeping Nigeria’s World Cup dreams alive.
A rampaging Victor Osimhen netted a stunning hat-trick as Nigeria cruised to victory in Uyo, booking a spot in the African playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement by his spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday, Tinubu hailed the Super Eagles for reigniting hope among millions of football-loving Nigerians for the mundial.
”While the job is not yet complete, I join millions of Nigerian football fans in wishing our team every success in the playoffs.”
”The mood across the country reflects a shared belief that Nigeria deserves a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Canada, Mexico, and the United States will host.”
”As your President, I assure you and the coaching crew of the Federal Government’s support as you strive to secure your place at the tournament. Nigerians everywhere believe in you, and I do too.”
”We look forward to seeing you fly our flag proudly on the world stage.
The playoffs will feature a semifinal-final format, with winners advancing to a FIFA interconfederation playoff for a potential tenth African World Cup spot.
The decisive second round of CAF qualifying will take place in MorMorocin November.
DR Congo also sealed their qualification with a narrow 1–0 win over Sudan to finish runners-up in Group B behind Senegal, with Cameroon joining them after placing second in Group D behind Cape Verde.
The play-offs, which will feature the four best runners-up from the nine African qualifying groups.
Nigeria, expected to remain the highest-ranked African side among the four when FIFA releases its updated rankings on October 23, will face the lowest-ranked team among the four, Gabon.
Cameroon and DR Congo will contest the other semi-final.
