Nigeria’s quest for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to a crushing end on Sunday after the Super Eagles fell to DR Congo in a tense penalty shootout at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The match, which ended 1–1 after 120 minutes, saw Nigeria take an early lead through Frank Onyeka in the 3rd minute before DR Congo’s Meschack Elia levelled in the 32nd minute. Extra time produced chances for both sides including a missed header from Tolu Arokodare and a crucial save by Stanley Nwabali but neither team could find a winner.
The shootout proved decisive. Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon missed for Nigeria, while Nwabali stopped DR Congo’s opening kick. Akor Adams briefly revived Nigeria’s hopes, but the Leopards converted their remaining attempts, sealing a 4–3 victory and a ticket to the intercontinental playoff.
The defeat confirms Nigeria will miss the World Cup for a second consecutive tournament — a major setback for the three-time African champions.
Both teams reached the final after dramatic semi-final victories: Nigeria’s 4–1 extra-time win over Gabon and DR Congo’s narrow 1–0 triumph over Cameroon. DR Congo will now await their intercontinental playoff opponent as they continue their push for a place at the expanded 48-team World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
