DR Congo have taken a huge leap toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup after eliminating Nigeria 4-3 on penalties in a dramatic African play-off final that ended 1-1 after extra time in Rabat.
The Leopards held their nerve in a tense six-round penalty shootout, with captain Chancel Mbemba converting the decisive kick. Goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu became the hero of the night after saving Semi Ajayi’s effort, sending DR Congo into next March’s intercontinental playoff—one final chance to book their ticket to the World Cup.
Nigeria, who already missed the 2022 tournament, will now sit out another World Cup after a disappointing showing on neutral soil. Their night had begun brightly when Frank Onyeka’s deflected strike found the net in just the third minute, raising hopes for the Super Eagles.
But DR Congo refused to fold. Meschack Elia equalised with a sharp close-range finish in the 31st minute, shifting momentum back to the Central Africans. The match remained locked through 120 minutes of fierce battles, near-misses, and high tension.
In the end, it was DR Congo’s composure that made the difference, setting up a massive intercontinental qualifier next year—one that could potentially end a decades-long absence from the World Cup stage.
Nigeria, meanwhile, face heavy criticism as fans question a second consecutive World Cup failure.
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