Nigeria’s quest to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to a painful end on Sunday night after the Super Eagles were edged out by DR Congo in a tense penalty shootout at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah.
The game had begun brightly for Nigeria, who struck first through Frank Onyeka. The midfielder benefited from a deflected Zaidu Sanusi delivery, smashing home a shot that brushed Arthur Masuaku on its way into the net. The early breakthrough lifted the Eagles, who pressed forward with intent. Wilfred Ndidi tested Mpazi-Nzau from distance, and an Ademola Lookman cut-back created a moment of confusion between Ndidi and Samuel Chukwueze, wasting a chance to double the lead.
But DR Congo responded with precision. A sharp breakaway midway through the first half saw Cédric Bakambu tee up Meschack Elia, who coolly finished past Stanley Nwabali to pull the Leopards level and disrupt Super Eagles’ rhythm heading into the interval.
The second half brought a worrying moment for Super Eagles as Victor Osimhen was withdrawn for Akor Adams after appearing to suffer a knock. DR Congo grew more comfortable, creating half-chances while Nigeria attempted to inject fresh energy with the introductions of Chidera Ejuke and Moses Simon.
Extra time Super Eagles’ second in as many matches saw DR Congo seize control. Though they failed to convert their dominance, Nigeria’s best opportunity fell to Tolu Arokodare, who couldn’t connect cleanly with a Bruno Onyemaechi cross.
Late drama unfolded when DR Congo had a goal chalked off before Chancel Mbemba forced Nwabali into a vital late save to force penalties.
But the decisive moment came from the Congolese bench. Substitute goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu, brought on specifically for the shootout, produced two crucial saves to hand DR Congo victory and book their place in the Inter-confederation playoffs—ending Nigeria’s hopes of featuring in 2026 FIFA World Cup
