Nigeria is now just one step away from the final stage of World Cup qualification after defeating Gabon 4–1 in extra time to reach the CAF play-off final against DR Congo. The Super Eagles are still alive in the race to make the expanded 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States — but the journey is not over.
After missing out on the automatic ticket when South Africa topped Group C, Nigeria had to squeeze through the mini-tournament for the best runners-up. A dominant 4–0 win over Benin — boosted by Frank Onyeka’s late strike — was enough to edge Burkina Faso on goal difference and secure progression.
Based on the FIFA rankings, Nigeria (41st) were paired with the lowest-ranked team, Gabon (77th), for the semi-final. The match ended 1–1 in normal time, but extra-time goals from Chidera Ejuke and a Victor Osimhen brace secured the victory for Eric Chelle’s side.
DR Congo booked their spot in the final by beating Cameroon 1–0, courtesy of a dramatic 91st-minute goal from Chancel Mbemba. Now, both nations will meet in a decisive showdown.
So how many matches are left for Nigeria to qualify for the 2026 World Cup?
Potentially two — but it might be just one.
1) CAF Play-off Final — Nigeria vs DR Congo
Date: Sunday, November 16
Venue: Neutral ground, Morocco
Outcome: Winner progresses to the Inter-Confederation Play-offs.
2) Inter-Confederation Play-offs — March 2026 (Mexico)
Six teams from five continents will fight for the final two World Cup slots.
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Here’s the twist:
The top two highest-ranked teams will skip the semi-final and play directly in the final.
The remaining four teams must play an extra match.
What This Means for Nigeria
If Nigeria is among the top two ranked teams:
They will play only ONE match in Mexico.
Win that match → They qualify for the World Cup
If Nigeria is not among the top two:
They will play two matches — a semi-final and a final.
Win both → They qualify.
Bottom Line
Nigeria has already cleared one hurdle against Gabon.
Now they may need one or two more matches — depending on FIFA rankings — to return to the World Cup for the first time since 2018.
Beat DR Congo on Sunday, and the dream stays alive.
