By Wale Mustapha.
Victor Osimhen.
(C) Google.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles thrashed the Panthers of Gabon 4–1 to seal qualification for the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoffs.
Victor Osimhen struck twice, while Adams Akor and Chidera Ejuke added a goal each to complete the emphatic victory.
Here, Wale Mustapha,a sports analyst,evaluates the players’ performances from the scintillating encounter in Rabat on Thursday:
1. Stanley Nwabali
The Chippa United shot-stopper had little to do but responded well when called upon.
Still needs to curb his dramatic tendencies.
The conceded goal wasn’t his fault. 6.5/10
2. Bright Osayi-Samuel
A largely decent outing, but he nearly gave away a penalty.
Looked unsettled afterwards and must improve on his final balls. 5/10
3. Zaidu Sanusi
A solid defensive shift from the FC Porto left-back.
Occasionally slow in recovery and could offer more in attack. 6/10
4. Benjamin Fredrick
A commanding, five-star display.
Confident, composed, and decisive with timely interceptions.
Completely neutralised Aubameyang and capped it with a brilliant assist. 10/10
5. Calvin Bassey
Provided leadership and authority at the back.
Dominant in aerial and ground duels, with occasional forays forward.
Rock-solid performance. 9/10
6. Wilfred Ndidi
Started quietly but grew strongly into the game.
Provided balance in midfield, protected the defence, and supported attacks.
Registered an assist but will miss the final due to a yellow card. 7.5/10
7. Samuel Chukwueze
Struggled to influence the game, especially in the first half.
Poor decision-making and deliveries at times.
Needs to step up in upcoming fixtures. 5/10
8. Alex Iwobi
His 90th appearance for Nigeria was below expectations.
Found it difficult to dictate play under pressure from Gabon’s midfielders.
Had a few bright moments early on but faded afterwards. 6.5/10
9. Ademola Lookman
Still searching for form.
Lost too many duels and failed to provide penetration.
Capable of much better. 5/10
10. Adams Akor
Another impressive outing, in contrast to his Benin Republic performance.
A constant threat to Gabon’s defence and worked tirelessly.
Showed sharp awareness to score Nigeria’s opener. 8/10
11. Victor Osimhen
The Galatasaray striker terrorized the Gabon defence throughout.
Redeemed an earlier miss with two crucial goals.
Relentless pressing and involvement across the pitch. 8.5/10
Substitutes
12. Chidera Ejuke
Made a major impact after coming on.
Injected pace and directness, and was rewarded with a well-taken goal. 7.5/10
13. Moses Simon
Had limited influence on proceedings.
Expected to contribute more in future games. 5/10
14. Frank Onyeka
Added energy and stability to a tiring midfield.
Needs greater composure to avoid unnecessary bookings. 6/10
15. Chidozie Awaziem
Delivered a fine free kick that assisted Osimhen’s goal. 7/10
16. William Troost-Ekong
Provided calm assurance in his brief appearance.
Made a couple of important late interceptions. 6.5/10
17. Tolu Arokodare
Unrated — too little time to make an impact.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
