*Nigeria once again fails to qualify for 2026 World Cup
*Loses to DR Congo in dramatic penalty shootout
*The match ended 1-1 after 120 minutes of regulation, extra time
*Nigeria last qualified for World Cup in 2018 that took place in Russia
By Adeolu Johnson
The Super Eagles yesterday crashed out of the 2026 World Cup as DR Congo advanced to the intercontinental playoff following a dramatic penalty shootout at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The match ended 1–1 after 120 minutes of regulation and extra time, sending the high-stakes encounter to penalties.
Nigeria initially went ahead through Frank Onyeka in the third minute, but DR Congo equalised in the 32nd minute through M. Elia.
Extra time saw both teams create chances, with Tolu Arokodare missing a header for Nigeria and Nwabali making a crucial save from a DR Congo free kick, but neither side could break the deadlock.
Nigeria made the perfect start to the contest, taking the lead early on when Zaidu Sanusi’s low cross deflected into the path of Frank Onyeka. The Brentford man fired a powerful strike that clipped Arthur Masuaku and sailed into the net, giving the Super Eagles a deserved advantage.
DR Congo nearly responded immediately after Stanley Nwabali failed to gather a set piece cleanly, but the Leopards were unable to pounce. Nigeria continued to create chances, with Wilfred Ndidi’s long-range volley forcing a save from Mpazi-Nzau, while an Ademola Lookman cut-back saw Ndidi and Samuel Chukwueze collide inside the box, wasting a promising opening.
The missed opportunities proved costly as the Leopards hit back in the 32nd minute. A swift counter-attack released Cédric Bakambu, who squared for Meschack Elia to calmly slot past Nwabali and level the score. The goal galvanised DR Congo, allowing them to slow Nigeria’s momentum and limit clear chances as the first half wore on.
