Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to a heartbreaking end on Sunday after DR Congo edged the Super Eagles on penalties following a tense 1-1 draw in Rabat.
Frank Onyeka gave Nigeria a dream start with a goal inside the opening three minutes, but DR Congo hit back in the 32nd minute through Meschak Elia. The equalizer shifted momentum, and although both sides carved out chances, the first half ended level.
There were early second-half concerns for Nigeria as star striker Victor Osimhen failed to return after the break. Sevilla forward Akor Adams was introduced in his place, followed later by Tolu Arokodare, but the changes brought little improvement. Chidera Ejuke and Moses Simon also came on to strengthen the attack, yet the Super Eagles were pinned back for long spells as the Leopards pushed aggressively for a winner.
Nigeria managed to withstand the pressure and dragged the match into extra time. DR Congo continued to dominate, and even though they had scored, their effort was chalked off for a foul on goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. The Chippa United shot-stopper then produced a crucial stoppage-time save to keep the Super Eagles alive.
With the game still tied after 120 minutes, penalties were needed to separate the sides. Nwabali saved two spot-kicks, giving Nigeria hope. But in sudden death, Semi Ajayi’s effort was stopped, and Chancel Mbemba stepped up to score the decisive penalty, sealing DR Congo’s place in the intercontinental playoffs and ending Nigeria’s World Cup campaign.
Nigeria had reached this round after a convincing 4-1 win over Gabon, while DR Congo progressed by defeating Cameroon. With qualification hopes now over, the Super Eagles will shift focus to the 2025 AFCON, scheduled to take place in Morocco next month.
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