By Frank Ulom
RABAT (CONVERSEER) – The Democratic Republic of Congo have defeated Nigeria in the CAF final playoff match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying series.
The Les Léopards edged the Super Eagles 4-3 on penalties after the game ended 1-1 after extra time in Rabat on Sunday.
Both teams went into the game knowing a win would take them a step closer to the World Cup in the Americas (United States, Canada and Mexico) next summer.
Nigeria opened the scoring through Frank Onyeka as early as three minutes of play. The Super Eagles missed another glorious chance to go two goals up.
The miss caused Nigeria as Les Léopards equalised in the 32nd minute, thanks to a gift from the Super Eagles defenders to Meschack Elias, who slotted home past Stanley Nwabali.
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There was no clear-cut chance for either team in normal and extra time as the game went into a penalty shootout.
Akor Adams, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Chidera Ejuke scored for Nigeria while Noah Sadiki, Fiston Mayele, Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Chancel Mbemba scored for DR Congo.
The DRC progressed to the intercontinental playoff and it will be their first World Cup appearance since 1974.
Nigeria, on the other hand, have failed to qualify for a second successive World Cup.
