The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has praised Victor Osimhen after his brace in Nigeria's 4-1 win against Gabon in the semi-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-offs on Thursday night, November 13.

The Super Eagles' win over the Panthers has put them in a better position to become Africa's representative at the inter-continental playoffs in March 2026.

Gabon was favoured coming into the semi-final of the playoff after securing a total of 25 points during the World Cup qualifiers, which ended last October.

Victor Osimhen missed three clear-cut chances in the first half of the game, as nerves began to build around the Galatasaray star's performance.

In the 90+11 minute, the star forward missed a one-on-one with the Gabon goalkeeper, which could be considered as the miss of the year.

Osimhen finally registered his name on the scoresheet with Nigeria’s third goal in the 102nd minute, following an assist from defender Benjamin Fredrick.

The Galatasaray forward completed his brace in the 110th minute, expertly controlling Chigozie Awaziem’s long pass before beating four defenders, according to the BBC.

Meanwhile, Sevilla forward Akor Adams gave Nigeria the lead in the 78th minute following a miscalculated pass by Bruno Ecuele Manga.

Mario Lamine scored an equaliser in the 89th minute, following a deflection from Birmingham defender Bright Osayi-Samuel to extend the game to extra time.

Chidera Ejuke also scored his first goal for Nigeria in the 97th minute to increase the goal tally to 2-1, according to the NY Times.

Following the match, CAF took to social media to hail the Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen for his brilliance against Gabon. In a post that went viral, the African football body wrote: Always him. Always there. Victor Osimhen! 🇳🇬"

Osimhen's brace against the Panthers has increased his goal tally for Nigeria to 31 in 44 appearances.

Nigeria will take on DR Congo in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-off on Sunday, November 16.

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