Osimhen’s Galatasaray Teammate, Mario Lemina Reacts to Nigeria’s 4–1 Win Over Gabon
Gabonese midfielder and Galatasaray star, Mario Lemina, has shared an emotional reaction to Gabon’s painful 4–1 defeat to the Super Eagles of Nigeria in Thursday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff in Rabat, Morocco.
Lemina, who watched his club teammate Victor Osimhen score twice in extra time, described the loss as a “mix of rage, disappointment and pride.”
Gabon came close to forcing an upset after grabbing a dramatic equaliser in the 89th minute, cancelling out Akor Adams’ opener for Nigeria. But the Super Eagles regained control through Chidera Ejuke, before Osimhen struck twice to seal a convincing win for Nigeria.
Reacting on X, Lemina wrote:
“A mix of emotions between rage, disappointment, and pride. We had promised ourselves to fight to the end for this jersey, but it wasn’t enough. Let’s use this experience to progress and move forward stronger toward our goals. Proud of you guys. Thank you.”
The Super Eagles will now face DR Congo in Sunday’s final playoff at the Moulay Hassan Stadium.
Opinion: Lemina’s Reaction Shows Football Is More Than a Game — It’s Identity, Emotion, and Respect
There is something refreshing about Lemina’s response. In a football world often dominated by banter, trolling, and endless rivalry, his words remind us of the deeper beauty of the sport.
He could have blamed his teammates.
He could have complained about fatigue or officiating.
He could have thrown jabs at Osimhen — after all, they meet every day at club level.
But instead, he chose honesty and humility.
Lemina’s emotional honesty captures three powerful truths:
1. Defeat hurts even the strongest professionals
Behind every superstar is a human being carrying national responsibility. When Gabon conceded three extra-time goals, it wasn’t just a tactical failure — it was heartbreak for every player wearing the yellow jersey.
2. Nigeria’s victory was not just deserved — it was earned
Osimhen’s brilliance, Ejuke’s confidence, and the Eagles’ resilience showed why Nigeria remains one of Africa’s toughest teams. Even Lemina, an opponent, recognized the quality staring him in the face.
3. Respect still exists in African football
Lemina’s praise for his team, his acknowledgment of the fight, and his measured response show maturity. And that is what the sport needs more of.
As Nigeria prepares to face DR Congo, the Super Eagles can take pride in not just the goals they scored, but in the respect they earned from a battle-hardened professional like Lemina.
And for Gabon?
This setback could become the foundation of a stronger, more determined team.
In football, defeats often teach more than victories — and Lemina seems to understand that deeply.
