DR Congo secured their spot in the intercontinental playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging Nigeria 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in Rabat. Frank Onyeka put the Super Eagles ahead early with a deflected strike, but Meschack Elia equalized before halftime by chipping the ball over goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali after receiving a cross from Cedric Bakambu.
Neither side could break the deadlock through regulation and extra time, despite DR Congo having two goals ruled out. Nigeria made multiple substitutions, including withdrawing Victor Osimhen at the interval, yet failed to recapture their attacking rhythm.
The shootout saw Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon fail for Nigeria, while Samuel Moutoussamy missed for DR Congo. Goalkeeper Dimitry Fayulu's save from Semi Ajayi proved decisive, allowing captain Chancel Mbemba to convert the winning penalty. Nigeria's absence from the previous World Cup will extend, while DR Congo advances to face an intercontinental opponent.
Neither side could break the deadlock through regulation and extra time, despite DR Congo having two goals ruled out. Nigeria made multiple substitutions, including withdrawing Victor Osimhen at the interval, yet failed to recapture their attacking rhythm.
The shootout saw Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon fail for Nigeria, while Samuel Moutoussamy missed for DR Congo. Goalkeeper Dimitry Fayulu's save from Semi Ajayi proved decisive, allowing captain Chancel Mbemba to convert the winning penalty. Nigeria's absence from the previous World Cup will extend, while DR Congo advances to face an intercontinental opponent.
