Super Eagles Into the Last 16: Nigeria 2-1 Morocco as Osimhen Strikes Again
Nigeria beat Morocco 2-1 on June 28, 2026 in Los Angeles to reach the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup — and in doing so, settled the question of which African nation is the continent's standard-bearer.
Osimhen Again
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Victor Osimhen opened the scoring in the 34th minute, powering a header past Morocco's goalkeeper from a Calvin Bassey cross. It was his third goal of the tournament.
Morocco equalised before the break through Hakim Ziyech, a curling free-kick that left Nwabali rooted.
The Winner
The decisive moment came in the 78th minute. Ademola Lookman, on as a substitute, drove at Morocco's retreating defence and slipped a pass to Samuel Chukwueze, who finished low at the near post. The Atlas Lions could not respond.
What It Means
Nigeria finished second in Group G behind France, setting up a Round of 16 tie against Italy. The result confirmed that Africa's expanded World Cup representation is translating into knockout-stage progress.
500 million Africans watched the continent's derby. Nigeria won it. The Eagles march on. 🇳🇬
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