Nigeria’s bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a major setback on Sunday after the Super Eagles were eliminated by DR Congo in a tense penalty shootout at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. The match ended 1–1 after 120 minutes of regulation and extra time, forcing the decisive playoff tie into penalties. Nigeria made a bright start, taking the lead in the third minute through Frank Onyeka. However, DR Congo drew level in the 32nd minute when M. Elia capitalised on a defensive lapse to beat goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. Both sides pushed for a winner in extra time. Tolu Arokodare narrowly missed a header that could have restored Nigeria’s lead, while Nwabali produced a vital save to keep out a DR Congo free kick. Despite increased urgency from both teams, neither could find the breakthrough. The drama continued during the penalty shootout. Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon missed Nigeria’s early spot kicks, while Nwabali gave the Super Eagles hope by saving DR Congo’s first attempt. Akor Adams converted Nigeria’s third penalty to keep them in contention. However, DR Congo held their nerve, with Sadique and Koita scoring crucial kicks before netting the decisive fourth penalty to seal a 4–3 shootout victory. The result sends DR Congo into the intercontinental playoff, while Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup now hang in the balance.
Nigeria ends World Cup 2026 dream after defeat by DRC
