Sports
Super Eagles miss 2026 World Cup as DR Congo win through penalties in Rabat
The Super Eagles will not feature at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, the United States, and Mexico after losing to DR Congo in a penalty shootout during the African play-offs final on Sunday.
The match ended 1-1 after normal and extra time, but in the shootout, the Leopards of DR Congo won 4-3 to secure Africa’s ticket to the intercontinental play-offs scheduled for March next year.
Nigeria started the game strongly and took the lead just three minutes into the match in Rabat, Morocco. Midfielder Frank Onyeka scored early to give the Super Eagles a bright start.
Nigeria pushed for a second goal but could not convert their chances. DR Congo gradually settled into the game and began controlling the tempo. Their pressure paid off in the 32nd minute when Mechak Elia fired in the equaliser.
The first half ended 1-1, but the second half began with a surprise as Victor Osimhen did not return to the pitch.
Coach Finidi George replaced him with Akor Adams, who plays for Sevilla, but the change did little to change the momentum. Later introductions of Tolu Arokodare, Chidera Ejuke and Moses Simon also failed to lift Nigeria’s attack.
The Super Eagles were forced to defend for long spells as the Congolese side pushed hard for a second goal. DR Congo even had the ball in the net during extra time, but the effort was ruled out for a foul on goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
Nwabali produced another big moment in stoppage time of extra time, making a crucial save to keep Nigeria in the game.
During the penalty shootout, Nwabali saved two kicks, giving Nigeria hope. But after the shootout went into sudden death, Semi Ajayi’s effort was saved, and Chancel Mbemba stepped up to score the winning penalty for DR Congo.
Nigeria had beaten Gabon 4-1 to reach the final, while DR Congo edged Cameroon in their own semi-final.
With the World Cup dream over, the Super Eagles will now switch their focus to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco next month.
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