DR Congo came from a goal down to beat Nigeria 4–3 on penalties in Rabat, ending the Super Eagles’ hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a tense 1–1 draw in the CAF play-off final.
Nigeria struck early through Frank Onyeka, but the Leopards fought back, equalised before the break and later held their nerve in a dramatic shootout to move one step closer to their first World Cup since 1974.
Nigeria made a perfect start at the Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium as Frank Onyeka fired them ahead inside three minutes, finishing calmly after a quick attacking move.
But the early breakthrough did not unsettle the Congolese for long. DR Congo grew into the match and Elia levelled in the 32nd minute, slotting past Nwabali as the Super Eagles defensive line failed to recover from a loose spell of play.
The Leopards carried the greater threat from the point. Their physical press unsettled Nigeria, who increasingly struggled to maintain control in midfield.
Nigeria’s problems deepened when Victor Osimhen was forced off at half-time with injury, depriving the team of their main attacking outlet. The striker, who had been heavily marked in the first half, limped off and did not return.
Without him, the Super Eagles looked short of ideas. DR Congo pushed further forward and twice found the net in the second half, only for both efforts to be ruled out one for offside and the other for a foul in the build-up.
Despite the pressure, the match stayed level through 90 minutes.
Extra time brought further drama as heavy rain lashed down in Rabat, slowing the tempo and complicating ball control for both sides.
Nigeria rarely threatened, relying on Nwabali and last-ditch defending to stay level. DR Congo, meanwhile, continued to push for a winner, hitting the post through a late Mbemba header in the final seconds of extra time.
On the touchline, an injured Osimhen stood directing teammates, attempting to inject urgency as penalties loomed.
Penalty shootout turns against Nigeria
Moments before the shootout, Congo made a bold decision, substituting goalkeeper Mpasi for Fayulu, brought on specifically for penalties.
The shootout opened badly for Nigeria as Calvin Bassey fired high and wide. Simon’s effort was saved soon after, leaving the Super Eagles under pressure.
Nwabali kept Nigeria alive with saves from Moutoussamy and Tuanzebe, while Adams, Onyemaechi and Ejuke converted their attempts.
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But with the scores tight, Semi Ajayi’s penalty was kept out by Fayulu, handing DR Congo the advantage.
That left captain Chancel Mbemba, on his 101st international appearance, to win it and he made no mistake, striking confidently to seal the 4–3 shootout victory
The win sends DR Congo into the six-team intercontinental play-off tournament in Mexico in March, where two World Cup spots will be decided.
The defeat for Nigeria marks a second consecutive failure to reach the World Cup, having also missed the 2022 finals in Qatar. It is a result that deepens scrutiny on the team’s structure, preparation and leadership within the Nigeria Football Federation.
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DR Congo’s players celebrated with their fans long after the final whistle, a night of relief, resilience and renewed belief as the Leopards continue their hunt for a place at the 2026 World Cup.
