By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Nigeria Misses 2026 World Cup After Penalty Defeat to DR Congo
Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup ended on Sunday after the Super Eagles were beaten on penalties by DR Congo in the African play-offs final.
The match, played in Rabat, Morocco, finished 1–1 after 120 minutes before the Congolese edged the shootout 4–3 to earn Africa’s slot in the intercontinental play-offs scheduled for March.
Nigeria made the perfect start, taking the lead just three minutes into the game when Frank Onyeka fired home to put the Super Eagles ahead.
They pushed for a second goal but failed to convert their chances, allowing DR Congo to settle and gradually take control of the match.
The Leopards were rewarded in the 32nd minute when Mechak Elia levelled, shifting momentum firmly in their favour.
The first half ended 1–1, but the sight of Victor Osimhen not returning after the break raised eyebrows among supporters.
Akor Adams replaced the Napoli striker, and later Tolu Arokodare was introduced, but neither substitution swung the contest Nigeria’s way.
Chidera Ejuke and Moses Simon also came off the bench, yet the Super Eagles spent long stretches defending as DR Congo dictated the pace.
The Congolese thought they had won it in extra time, but their goal was cancelled for a foul on goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who later produced a crucial late save to keep Nigeria alive.
In the penalty shootout, Nwabali stopped two attempts, giving Nigeria hope. But when the contest went into sudden death, Semi Ajayi’s kick was saved.
DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba stepped up and buried the decisive penalty, sealing the Leopards’ place in the intercontinental play-offs.
Nigeria had earlier thrashed Gabon 4–1 to reach the final stage of qualifying, while DR Congo advanced after edging Cameroon.
The Super Eagles will now shift focus to preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which begins next month in Morocco.
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