Nigeria’s World Cup dream ends in penalty shootout loss to DR Congo

Nigeria’s Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering an agonizing 4-3 penalty shootout defeat against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).
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The final of the African play-off, held in Rabat, Morocco, saw the match end in a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes of play before being decided by penalties. DR Congo secured the sole African slot in the upcoming inter-continental play-off tournament.
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‎The match was a winner-takes-all clash between the two best second-placed teams from the African qualifying series, with the victor advancing to the final inter-continental play-off to secure a World Cup berth.
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‎Nigeria took an early lead in the third minute through a deflected shot by midfielder Frank Onyeka. However, DR Congo quickly equalized in the 32nd minute when Meschack Elia finished a quick attack, restoring parity at 1-1. The score remained level through the second half and a tense extra time, during which DR Congo had two goals disallowed for fouls in the build-up.
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‎Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle made two key changes to the starting lineup, bringing in Frank Onyeka and Semi Ajayi. Chelle also replaced striker Victor Osimhen with Akor Adams early in the second half, reportedly due to injury.
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‎The shootout proved decisive, with Nigeria missing its first two kicks, taken by Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon. Despite two saves from Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, Semi Ajayi missed the sixth spot-kick, allowing DR Congo Captain Chancel Mbemba to convert the final penalty and secure the victory.
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‎DR Congo, securing the victory on penalties, advances to the inter-continental play-off tournament scheduled for March 2026 in Mexico. They join Bolivia (CONMEBOL) and New Caledonia (OFC) in the final push for a World Cup spot.
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