Nigeria eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers
Democratic Republic of Congo have defeated the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Africa playoff final at the Stade Prince Moulay Hassan in Rabat, Morocco.
DR Congo defied the odds to win the playoff final after beating Nigeria 4-3 in the penalty shootouts.
The Super Eagles took the early lead in the game through Frank Onyeka in the 3rd minute after opening the match with strong momentum.
DR Congo however got themselves back into the game in the 32nd minute after Meschack Elia scored from close range to tie the game in the first half.
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The Congolese team defended with their lives to take the game to penalties after failing to register a single shot on target in the second half and during extra time.
The penalties went in their favor as goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu, who was introduced in the final minutes of the extra time became the hero by making two saves to help his team.
Calvin Bassey, Frank Onyeka, Semi Ajayi all missed their kicks as Noah Sadiki, Fiston Mayele, Michel-Ange Balikwisha and captain Chancel Mbemba scored to win the game for DR Congo.
The Leopards have now qualified for the inter-continental playoff in March 2026 as they push for a return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since the 1974 edition in West Germany.
Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying campaign has ended, and they will miss the Mundial for the second consecutive time.
JE
