The Leopards of DR Congo defeated Nigeria 4-3 in a penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1 after extra time, to secure their spot in the intercontinental playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Both nations came into the game after winning their semi final opponents on Thursday November 13, Nigeria edging out Gabon 4 – 2 at extra time and DR Congo scoring in added time to shatter Cameroon’s World cup dreams but it was DR Congo who came out victorious in the contest in penalties shootout after the game ended 1-1 in extra time.
Frank Onyeka scored for Nigeria in the 3rd minute, while Meschak Elia equalized for DR Congo in the 32nd minute. Star Striker Victor Osimhen seem to be injured and was subbed off after the break with Sevilla man Akor Adams replacing him. There were no goals from either sides in the second half and and extra time and so it has to be decided by penalties.
Fulham defender Calvin Bassey missed the opening penalty for Nigeria firing the ball over the bar, Stanley Nwabali who also saved two spot kicks heroics were not enough as Timothy Fayulu, the DR Congo goalkeeper, saved two Nigerian penalties, including Semi Ajayi’s. Chancel Mbemba who scored the only goal in the semi final stepped up a x scored the winning penalty for DR Congo. The captain running wildly in celebration as soon as his penalty kick strucked the back of the net and his teammates and fans in the stands join him celebrating.
This win marks a historic moment for DR Congo, who has only featured once at the World Cup, back in 1974 when they were known as Zaire. They will now compete in the interconfederation playoffs for a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
The Super Eagles’ World Cup dreams were shattered, despite a strong performance. Victor Osimhen’s absence due to injury was noticeable, and the team struggled to adapt without him.
