A brace from Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen propelled the three-time African champions over the Panthers to boost their chances of qualifying for the global showpiece.
In the five-goal thriller inside Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan, Akor Adams put the Super Eagles ahead with a fine strike but Thierry Mouyouma’s men restored parity in the 89th minute courtesy of Mario Lemina.
Nevertheless, the Nigerians scaled through courtesy of an extra-time double from Osimhen and another from Chidera Ejuke.
“About this game, about the extra time, we didn't see that coming, we didn't think that the game would go into extra time,” said Chelle.
“In the first half, we were so good with the ball possession, intensity, and with the aggressivity. Gabon tried to play through counter but we managed well.
“We had a lot of situations and in the second half, we scored a goal then changed the system.
“Everything was good but we just made a little mistake in our position, and we let them score a goal. For me, we deserved this victory and I am happy for my players.”
Thanks to this result, Nigeria will now face DR Congo to pick the sole ticket for next year’s inter-confederation playoffs billed for Mexico next year.
When asked by Flashscore on what his team would do differently in the winners take all encounter, the Franco-Malian added: “I will watch this game again because we did a lot of good things but bad things too.
“We have to correct some things before the next game and I am confident in my team and I know that they will do better than they did against Gabon.
“The most important thing for this team is to create an identity. This identity is how we play the defence and the offence. This is why we try to improve at every FIFA window.
“These guys have improved technically, mentally and they understand what I want to do for them.”
