Former Super Eagles defender Abiodun Obafemi has commended Nigeria for their 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon but says the team must be far more ruthless in front of goal if they want to secure the World Cup ticket and compete against elite nations next year.
Obafemi, who praised the overall performance, said Nigeria dominated large portions of the first half but wasted several clear-cut chances that could have killed the game early. According to him, missing opportunities at this stage of qualification could prove costly, especially against a physical and tactically disciplined DR Congo side.
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He noted that the team appeared to lose momentum after the break, allowing Gabon to grow in confidence and eventually equalise. “We lost control for about 20 minutes and that should never happen,” he said. “In the playoffs, one moment can change everything.”
However, the former Olympic gold medallist applauded the Super Eagles’ response in extra time, describing it as one of their most mature 30-minute spells in recent memory.
Obafemi also expressed relief that off-field issues—including unpaid wages and the recent training boycott—have now been resolved, saying the players can finally focus solely on football. “You could see the difference once their minds were clear,” he said. “The quality immediately came out.”
He praised Osimhen’s brilliance, Ejuke’s intelligence and Ndidi’s leadership, but emphasised that the team must tighten up defensively and maintain physical sharpness for the full 90 minutes.
Looking ahead to Sunday’s final, Obafemi said DR Congo are no strangers to big matches but believes Nigeria are superior in every department if they stay focused.
“If they take their chances early, Nigeria can beat any European side at the World Cup,” he said. “We just need to finish well, stay calm and do the job.”
