Nigeria have failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup .

The Super Eagles' hopes of qualifying for next summer’s tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States firstly came down to a mini play-off tournament held in Morocco and consisting of the four best runners-up in the first round group phase.

As per FIFA’s latest rankings, Nigeria - the highest-ranked team of the quartet at 41st - were paired with Gabon - the lowest at 77th - for the second round semi-final.

After the tie had finished 1-1 in regulation time, Chidera Ejuke struck early in the first period of extra-time before Victor Osimhen netted a brace to help Eric Chelle’s side overcome the Panthers .

That set up a play-off final against DR Congo, who pulled off a shock result against Cameroon in the other semi-final on

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