The Democratic Republic of Congo strengthened their push for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Nigeria 4–3 on penalties in a dramatic African play-off final that ended 1–1 after extra time on neutral ground in Rabat.
In a match defined by grit, tension, and fine margins, it was Leopards captain Chancel Mbemba who delivered the decisive moment. The veteran defender calmly converted the winning spot-kick after Nigerian defender Semi Ajayi saw his effort saved by Congolese goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu in the sixth round of the shootout.
The victory sends DR Congo into next March’s intercontinental playoff, where they will battle for a historic return to the global stage. For Nigeria, however, the result marks a painful setback confirming that the three-time African champions will miss a second consecutive World Cup.
Nigeria had started brightly, taking the lead just three minutes into the contest when Frank Onyeka’s powerful effort took a deflection that wrong-footed Fayulu. But the Leopards grew steadily into the match, and their persistence paid off in the 33rd minute when Meschack Elia reacted quickest inside the box to fire home the equalizer.
Despite a series of late chances for both sides, neither team could find a breakthrough in regulation time or extra time, sending the tie to a high-stakes penalty shootout. The Congolese held their nerve, sealing a famous win that keeps their World Cup ambitions alive.
Nigeria, meanwhile, will be left to reflect on another missed opportunity on the road to football’s biggest tournament this time after a performance that never truly clicked on the Moroccan turf.
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