DR Congo advanced their drive toward the 2026 global finals after prevailing 4-3 in a tense penalty decider against Nigeria, following a 1-1 stalemate that lasted through extra time in the African play-off showdown.
Captain Chancel Mbemba struck the decisive attempt from the spot, sealing the result after substitute goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu – introduced specifically for the shootout – denied Semi Ajayi in the sixth round.
The triumph sends the Central African side to an intercontinental challenge scheduled for next March, keeping alive their dream of returning to the tournament for the first time since 1974.
Nigeria’s exit marks a second straight failure to reach the finals, ending their campaign with an unconvincing display in Rabat.
Frank Onyeka’s early effort, which took a deflection, put the West Africans ahead inside three minutes, but Meschack Elia restored parity midway through the opening half with a close-range finish.
Momentum shifts as DR Congo take control after the interval
Nigeria’s offensive threat faded sharply once Victor Osimhen left the pitch during the break, allowing DR Congo to dictate possession throughout most of the second period.
Mbemba nearly clinched victory late in extra time, only for Stanley Nwabali to stretch across the goal and push away his looping attempt near the right post.
The shootout unfolded under heavy rain, culminating in Mbemba firing high into the net and sparking celebrations that sent the Congolese players sprinting toward their jubilant supporters.
The win keeps hopes alive for a nation long absent from football’s biggest stage and still chasing a return under their current name.
Nigeria’s struggles continue after a turbulent qualification journey
Ranked significantly higher than their rivals, the Super Eagles were widely expected to progress, but their elimination will sting given their strong heritage and deep fanbase in the United States.
Their extended qualifying path was disrupted by instability, with three different coaches overseeing various stages of the campaign.
Eric Chelle rekindled their prospects after taking charge at the start of the year, yet the team only squeezed into the playoffs on goal difference.
A recurring issue has been the lack of a cutting edge whenever Osimhen was unavailable, as the side gathered just four points from a possible fifteen during group matches played without the Galatasaray forward.
Chelle’s players created little after their early breakthrough, and DR Congo grew more assertive as the contest progressed, with Nigeria largely settling for penalties after Osimhen’s withdrawal.
Leopards join intercontinental field as World Cup hopes remain alive
Fiston Mayele twice appeared to have secured victory during extra time, but both moments were overturned due to fouls committed by teammates in the build-up.
DR Congo held firm in a gripping finish and now moves into the six-team playoff event, joining Bolivia and New Caledonia in next year’s qualification finale.
They will be joined by the winner of the Asian meeting between Iraq and the United Arab Emirates, as well as the two strongest third-placed sides from Concacaf’s third phase.
Sitting 60th in the world standings, the Leopards may face up to two additional contests on their path to securing a place at the finals, with their route to be confirmed after Thursday’s draw.