The Super Eagles’ quest for a return to the FIFA World Cup ended in heartbreak on Sunday as Nigeria fell 4–3 to the Democratic Republic of Congo in a tense penalty shootout after a 1–1 draw in the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff final.
The defeat means Nigeria will miss back-to-back World Cups, having also failed to qualify for Qatar 2022, while DR Congo advance to the Intercontinental playoffs in Mexico scheduled for March 2026.
Nigeria got off to a dream start, taking the lead in the third minute when Frank Onyeka’s effort from the edge of the box took a deflection and nestled in the net.
The Eagles pushed for a second, with Wilfred Ndidi twice testing the Congolese defence and Ademola Lookman creating a gilt-edged chance that went begging after a mix-up in the box.
DR Congo grew into the game and were rewarded in the 32nd minute when Meshack Elia calmly slotted home a low cross to level the score.
Both sides continued to trade chances, with Victor Osimhen seeing a volley deflected wide and Stanley Nwabali producing key saves to keep Nigeria in the contest deep into extra time.
The Congolese had two goals ruled out for fouls, while Nwabali made a crucial late save to drag the match into penalties.
In the shootout, captain Chancel Mbemba buried the decisive kick, sealing DR Congo’s triumph and ending Nigeria’s World Cup hopes once again.
