The winner progresses to a six-nation intercontinental tournament in Mexico, keeping hopes alive of reaching an expanded 48-team World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Nigeria and DR Congo earned second chances after finishing as the best runners-up in African qualifying. In the semi-finals, Osimhen struck twice in extra time to seal a 4-1 win over Gabon, while Chancel Mbemba fired DR Congo past Cameroon.

Osimhen, the reigning African Player of the Year, has been in clinical form, scoring a hat-trick against Benin in the previous round, and has remained a constant threat against Gabon. He admitted frustration after missing a late chance but said he “promised to score in extra time,” and delivered.

Read Also: Nigeria, Gabon Set for Crucial World Cup Playoff Clash

Nigeria have reached the World Cup six times since their debut and are determined to avoid missing consecutive editions after falling short against Ghana in the last play-offs.

Source: Punch