Live Updates: 2026 World Cup Playoff – Half-Time: Nigeria 0-0 Gabon

It’s half-time at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, where Nigeria and Gabon remain deadlocked at 0–0 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying play-off.

The Super Eagles, led by Victor Osimhen, have had the better of possession but couldn’t find a breakthrough in a first half that produced few clear chances.

1′ The referee signals the start of the game, and Nigeria immediately take control, earning an early free-kick. Sanusi fires at goal, but Mbaba makes an easy save.

4′ CHANCE! Nigeria threaten as Adams pounces on a defensive mix-up, but Mbaba reacts quickly to deny him.

6′ Gabon respond through Bouanga, though Osayi-Samuel defends well. Ndidi halts another counter but picks up a yellow card.

10′ Osayi-Samuel charges down the right and finds Iwobi, whose shot sails over.

17′ CHANCE! Adams crosses to Osimhen, who heads just wide before colliding with Mbaba and needing brief treatment.

21′ SAVE! Osimhen rises highest again, but Mbaba produces another smart stop to keep the scores level.

27′ NO GOAL! Nigeria thought they had scored after a goalmouth scramble, but the referee rules it out.

29′ VAR CHECK: Nigeria appeal for handball inside Gabon’s box, but play is cleared to continue.

33′–40′ Nigeria dominate possession while Gabon look dangerous on the counter. Osayi-Samuel and Osimhen combine well, but Mbaba cuts out the cross.

43′ Aubameyang is booked for a late challenge on Frederick.

44′ Gabon nearly score when Openda cuts inside and shoots, but Nwabali saves at his near post.

45′ Six minutes of added time are shown.

45+6′ Frederick matches Aubameyang for pace to deny a Gabon break. The Panthers win a late corner, but Nwabali clears safely to close the half.

At the break, it’s Nigeria 0–0 Gabon — a tense, evenly matched contest with both goalkeepers in fine form.

The winner of this tie will advance to face either DR Congo or Cameroon in the next round of the CAF World Cup play-offs.

Stay tuned for the second-half updates as the Super Eagles continue their push for a 2026 World Cup ticket.

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