Former Super Eagles winger Ahmed Garba in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa stated that Nigeria’s commanding 4–1 victory over Gabon is a strong indication that the team will overcome DR Congo in the final game of the playoffs.
The Super Eagles defeated the Panthers with three goals in extra time after regulation time ended 1–1. Akor Adams put Nigeria ahead in the 78th minute, before Mario Lemina equalised for the Gabonese with one minute left in regulation time.
Victor Osimhen had a chance to win it for Nigeria in added time but wasted two glaring opportunities, sending the match into extra time. Sevilla forward Chidera Ejuke then scored his first international goal to make it 2–1 before Osimhen added a brace to seal the win and secure Nigeria’s place in the playoff final, where they will face DR Congo, who defeated Cameroon 1–0.
INTO THE FINAL! pic.twitter.com/DyApTxNbDS
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) November 13, 2025
Garba, ecstatic about the result, believes the team has found their rhythm and looks set to reach the intercontinental playoffs.
“I cannot remember the last time we won two straight games with four goals. We beat Benin by four, and now we got four again against Gabon,” he exclusively told Footy-Africa. “This is a good win and a good omen. I wanted us to qualify directly, but since we are here, I am happy with the output, and I am confident in the boys. We could have even scored more than we did if the players took their chances, especially in the first half, but the win is a good confidence booster.”
Speaking on the next match, Garba admitted DR Congo will be tough opposition but believes Nigeria has the edge.
“Our next game against DR Congo will be difficult as they were able to defeat Cameroon, who are a big team. It will be a physical game and the boys will have to be up for it. I like how the team is developing, and I think we will be able to beat them. The Super Eagles have got their confidence back, and I see them defeating DR Congo,” the former Borussia Dortmund star added.
We face the Leopards on Sunday pic.twitter.com/pJZAvPaGWJ
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) November 13, 2025
Nigeria will now meet the Democratic Republic of Congo in Sunday’s final at the Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay El Hassan.
