Ejuke delighted with first Nigeria goal, shifts focus to crucial playoff final

Super Eagles winger Chidera Ejuke in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa stated that he is hungry for more goals for Nigeria after scoring his maiden international goal in the team’s 4–1 victory over Gabon in Thursday’s FIFA World Cup qualifier playoff in Rabat.

The Super Eagles brushed aside the Panthers to advance to the final, where they will face the Democratic Republic of Congo, who defeated Cameroon 1-0 in their own semi-final clash.

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Ejuke came off the bench to put Nigeria 2–1 ahead after Mario Lemina cancelled out Akor Adams’ opener. Victor Osimhen later sealed the win with a brace in extra time, securing Nigeria’s place in Sunday’s final.

Elated Ejuke exclusively told Footy-Africa that while he is pleased to have contributed to the victory, his focus is now fully on the upcoming final:

“It feels good to get my first goal for the country, but most importantly it helped the team to win, and I will remember it for a long time. However, that game has gone.”

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“It was incredible, to be honest. We worked very hard. I am just excited I could contribute something to the team. To be honest, I just wanted to come in and contribute something positively, bringing my skill going forward and also helping the team to defend as a group,” he added.

Looking ahead to the decisive clash against DR Congo, the Sevilla winger said the squad is ready for the challenge.

“We are just very positive and excited going into this game (against Congo) and hoping, praying, by the grace of God we will come out with an outstanding game and get the victory at the end,” he concluded.

Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo will clash on Sunday night for Africa’s sole ticket to the six-team 2026 FIFA World Cup Intercontinental Playoff Finals scheduled for March, where two teams will ultimately secure a place at next year’s World Cup.