By Deborah Nnamdi
Nigeria’s hopes of featuring at the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been dashed after the Super Eagles fell 4-3 on penalties to the Leopards of DR Congo in a dramatic African play-offs final on Sunday.
The match, played in Rabat, Morocco, ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time. Nigeria had the perfect start, taking the lead just three minutes into the encounter when midfielder Frank Onyeka fired home to put the Super Eagles ahead. The early goal boosted Nigeria’s confidence as they pushed for a second, but wasted chances would later prove costly.
As the game progressed, DR Congo gradually took control, dictating the tempo and testing Nigeria’s defensive organisation. Their persistence paid off in the 32nd minute when Mechak Elia pounced to equalise, dragging the Leopards back into contention.
The first half closed on level terms, but the second half began with a surprise as Victor Osimhen failed to return to the pitch. His absence forced Nigeria to introduce Sevilla forward Akor Adams. Later substitutions—including Tolu Arokodare, Chidera Ejuke, and Moses Simon—did little to change the flow of the match, with Nigeria pinned back for long spells as the Congolese pressed for a winner.
DR Congo thought they had secured victory in extra time, but their goal was ruled out for a foul on Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali. The Chippa United shot-stopper kept the Super Eagles alive with a crucial late save to push the contest into a nerve-racking penalty shootout.
During the shootout, Nwabali produced two big saves, raising Nigeria’s hopes. But the Super Eagles failed to capitalise. After the contest went into sudden death, Semi Ajayi’s effort was saved, leaving DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba to convert the decisive kick that sealed Congo’s place in next year’s intercontinental play-offs.
Nigeria had earlier defeated Gabon 4-1 to reach the final play-off stage, while DR Congo advanced by edging Cameroon. With the World Cup dream now over, the Super Eagles will shift focus to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to take place in Morocco next month.
