The Super Eagles appeared set for a narrow 1-0 victory after Sevilla’s Akor Adams capitalized on a defensive error by Gabon in heavy rain in Rabat, Morocco.
However, Mario Lemina’s deflected strike late in the match kept Gabon’s World Cup qualification hopes alive.
Nigeria nearly faltered when Victor Osimhen, fresh off his October hat-trick against Benin, missed a one-on-one chance in the dying seconds of normal time.
Osimhen redeemed himself in extra time, as Eric Chelle’s side took control.
Adams’ Sevilla teammate Chidera Ejuke scored from Wilfred Ndidi’s pass with a composed finish, before Osimhen added a second goal with a clinical strike five minutes later.
Early in the second half of extra time, Osimhen sealed the victory, bringing down a high ball, driving into space, and finishing confidently to ensure Nigeria’s 3-1 triumph.
The Super Eagles will now face either Cameroon or DR Congo in Sunday’s final.
The winner of this mini-tournament will earn a spot in the intercontinental playoffs next March, competing for one of two World Cup group-stage berths.
With all matches held in Morocco, the tournament carries the atmosphere of a condensed Africa Cup of Nations, ahead of the continent’s premier competition set to be hosted in the country in December.
