Nigeria’s dream of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup was dashed on Sunday as DR Congo edged the Super Eagles 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after regular and extra time in the CAF playoff final at Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah.
The Super Eagles struck first in the 3rd minute when Frank Onyeka’s deflected effort beat the DR Congo goalkeeper, raising hopes of a spot in March’s inter-confederation playoffs.
However, Meschak Elia leveled the score in the 32nd minute with a clinical finish, and despite intense pressure from both sides, the match remained deadlocked through a tense second half and extra time.
In the shootout, DR Congo held their nerve, converting four penalties while Nigeria managed three. Substitute goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu proved the hero for the Leopards, making crucial saves, including one from Semi Ajayi.
“It was a tough battle, but we believed in ourselves from the start,” said DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba, who scored the decisive penalty. “This victory is for our nation.”
Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle was left devastated: “We gave everything, but football can be cruel. The early goal lifted us, yet their response in the 32nd minute shifted momentum.”
The defeat means Nigeria will miss consecutive World Cups for the first time since 2006-2010, failing to reach the expanded 48-team tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico – or even the inter-confederation playoffs.
DR Congo advances to face five other confederations’ representatives for one of two remaining spots.
Played on neutral ground in Morocco due to CAF regulations, the loss caps a turbulent qualifying campaign that saw Chelle turn around a winless start into playoff contention.