Former Super Eagles star, Victor Ikpeba, has hailed the Super Eagles for beating Gabon 4-1 in the World Cup qualifying playoff despite the problems they encountered before the game.
The Super Eagles embarked on strike on Tuesday, two days to the all-important encounter, to force the hands of those in charge of football in the country to pay their match bonuses.
The team resumed training on Wednesday, just 24 hours before the game, and were able to beat their opponents silly in the first semi final of the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff.
Akor Adams scored in the 78th minute of the match to put Nigeria ahead, pouncing on a loose ball to score into an empty net.
But Gabon levelled 10 minutes later, as Mario Lemina’s deflected effort crept in past Stanley Nwabali.
Chidera Ejuke came off the bench to finish off Wilfred Ndidi’s pass to restore Nigeria’s lead early in the first half extra-time before Victor Osimhen added a brace to seal a 4-1 win and a place in the final.
“Despite the problems, the boys reacted positively and did the job,” Ikpeba said on Super Sports.
“What a fantastic display we saw in the extra-time. I’m sure this momentum these boys will take to the next game.
“A great, great result. Our boys will be so pleased with the extra time of this game. So congratulations to the boys.”
Nigeria will now face DR Congo to claim the ticket to represent Africa at the intercontinental playoffs in March 2026.