‘Dem go whyne you, but no panic’ — CAF hail Osimhen after Super Eagles star’s Gabon brace

Nigeria’s path to the 2026 World Cup moved one step closer as the Super Eagles sealed a dramatic 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon, with Victor Osimhen and Benjamin Frederick standing out in an intense playoff clash.

Despite moments of frustration, Osimhen eventually delivered when it mattered most—earning praise from across the continent, including a viral message from CAF.

For long stretches, the Super Eagles seemed set to win the match in regulation time, but a combination of missed chances and late drama forced extra minutes.

At the centre of it all was Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s talisman and often the difference-maker in crucial games.

Yet on this night, he was uncharacteristically wasteful, missing several clear chances that could have settled the match, including a golden one-on-one in the dying moments of the second half with the score locked at 1–1.

The miss stunned fans and could easily have proved costly, but Chidera Ejuke’s composed finish in extra time restored Nigeria’s lead. And once that weight was lifted, Osimhen roared back to life, scoring twice in extra time to turn villain into hero.

His late brace sealed a commanding 4–1 win and reminded everyone why he is still one of the world’s elite forwards.

Osimhen’s redemption arc did not go unnoticed. After the match, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) took to their official X page to celebrate the Galatasaray striker.

African football’s governing body posted Osimhen’s photo with the caption: “Dem go whyne you, but no panic. You full ground!”, a nod to the Super Eagles star’s resilience and mental strength.

Benjamin Frederick also earned praise for his calm, composed display at the back, helping steady Nigeria throughout a chaotic contest.

The victory now sets up a tense final showdown with DR Congo, who advanced after Chancel Mbemba’s dramatic late winner against Cameroon. With a World Cup ticket edging closer, Nigeria will hope Osimhen’s confidence and goalscoring touch continue into the decisive clash.