Nigeria Miss World Cup Again After Shootout Loss To DR Congo
3 min read
By Sportsgister
The Super Eagles’ quest to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to a heartbreaking end on Sunday night, as DR Congo came from behind to defeat Nigeria 4–3 on penalties after a tense 1–1 draw in the CAF World Cup qualifying play-off final in Rabat, Morocco.
Nigeria, seeking redemption after missing the 2022 World Cup, made a dream start but ultimately failed to withstand the Leopards’ resilience, intensity and superior nerve during the shootout.
At the Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium, the Super Eagles struck almost immediately when Frank Onyeka finished a flowing move inside the third minute, putting Nigeria ahead and lifting early confidence.
But DR Congo refused to be rattled. The Leopards regrouped, grew into the game, and eventually found their breakthrough in the 32nd minute. Elia pounced on a defensive lapse, calmly beating goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to level the contest.
From that point, DR Congo looked the more assertive side, pressing aggressively and unsettling Nigeria’s midfield rhythm.
Nigeria’s problems worsened when star striker Victor Osimhen, heavily targeted by the Congolese defence, was forced off at half-time due to injury. His absence left the Super Eagles without their attacking focal point, and the team struggled to create clear opportunities.
DR Congo twice had the ball in the net in the second half, but both goals were correctly ruled out — one for offside and the other for a foul in the build-up. Despite sustained pressure, the match remained locked at 1–1 after regulation time.
As heavy rain descended over Rabat during extra time, both teams battled slippery conditions and fatigue. Nigeria offered little going forward, relying on Nwabali and determined defending to stay alive.
DR Congo, however, continued to push and nearly won it in the final moments when Chancel Mbemba’s towering header crashed off the post.
On the sidelines, an injured Osimhen stood gesturing passionately, urging his teammates on as a penalty shootout became inevitable.
Before penalties began, DR Congo coach Sébastien Desabre made a crucial tactical switch, replacing goalkeeper Mpasi with penalty specialist Siadi Fayulu.
Nigeria’s troubles began immediately when Calvin Bassey blazed his effort over the bar. Moses Simon later saw his kick saved, putting the Super Eagles in a deep hole.
Nwabali responded heroically with saves from Moutoussamy and Tuanzebe, while Ademola Lookman, Bruno Onyemaechi and Chidera Ejuke converted their spot-kicks to keep Nigeria in contention.
But the turning point came when Semi Ajayi’s effort was stopped by Fayulu, leaving Congo’s captain Chancel Mbemba making his 101st international appearance to seal the victory. He made no mistake, smashing home the winning penalty to complete a remarkable comeback.
The victory sends DR Congo into the six-team intercontinental playoff tournament scheduled for March 2026 in Mexico, where two global finals tickets will be contested.
For Nigeria, the defeat signals a second straight failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. The result is expected to heighten scrutiny on the team’s preparations, tactical setup, and overall management within the Nigeria Football Federation.
Meanwhile, DR Congo’s players celebrated with jubilation alongside their supporters — a night marked by resilience, belief and renewed hope as they continue their pursuit of a first World Cup appearance since 1974.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
