Former Super Eagles midfielder Mutiu Adepoju has praised Nigeria’s spirited display in their four to one extra time win over Gabon in the CAF World Cup playoff semifinal in Rabat. After a tense ninety minutes that ended level, the Eagles stepped up in remarkable fashion to score three times in the added period and secure their spot in the final. They now wait for the winner of the match between DR Congo and Cameroon.
Adepoju who spoke on Sporty TV commended the team’s attitude during the most demanding stage of the game. He noted that the regular time had been difficult and pointed out that Victor Osimhen almost won it before the whistle. He expressed delight at the way the side suddenly lifted their energy and produced three goals once extra time began, describing it as a strong reaction and a performance to admire.
The match had opened with Nigeria taking control of possession and keeping Gabon pinned back for long spells. Despite their dominance, the breakthrough proved elusive until the seventy eighth minute when Akor Adams punished a defensive mistake with a cool finish. The goal seemed enough to settle the contest until a late twist in the eighty ninth minute. Mario Lemina struck a deflected effort that wrong footed goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and forced the match into extra time.
Nigeria responded with authority. Chidera Ejuke restored the lead in the ninety seventh minute after smart interplay that involved Wilfred Ndidi. Osimhen who had been kept quiet for most of the evening then burst into life with two quick goals. His sharp effort in the one hundred and second minute pushed Nigeria clear and he returned in the one hundred and tenth minute to finish calmly and secure a commanding result.
Coach Eric Chelle’s tactical decisions proved vital. The introduction of Frank Onyeka helped steady the midfield while Chidozie Awaziem and William Troost Ekong were brought on late to protect the lead and maintain control of the closing stages.
With the win in Rabat the Super Eagles move closer to a return to the global stage. Their final opponent will be confirmed when the match between DR Congo and Cameroon is decided.
