The Super Eagles of Nigeria have seen their bid for a place in the final playoff stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup come to an end after a 4–3 penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in Rabat on Sunday night.
The clash at the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium ended 1–1 in regulation time. With a coveted spot in the six-team playoff tournament in Guadalajara and Monterrey at stake, both sides fought intensely through 120 minutes.
Nigeria struck early when Frank Onyeka fired home in the third minute, but DR Congo responded through Meschack Elia, who equalised in the 32nd minute. With neither side able to find a winner in extra time, the match went to penalties, where Congolese captain Chancel Mbemba buried the decisive kick to seal a 4–3 victory.
The result sends the Leopards into March’s inter-confederation playoff in Mexico, where two remaining World Cup tickets will be contested.
