Nigeria’s quest to return to the FIFA World Cup ended in heartbreak on Sunday night in Rabat, Morocco, as the Super Eagles fell 4-3 on penalties to the Democratic Republic of Congo after a tense 1-1 draw across 120 minutes.
Match Report
Early breakthrough: Nigeria struck first in the third minute when Frank Onyeka’s deflected shot gave them a dream start.
Equaliser: DR Congo responded in the 32nd minute, with Meschack Elia capitalising on a defensive lapse to level the score.
Second-half struggles: Nigeria’s momentum faltered after star striker Victor Osimhen was forced off at halftime due to injury. DR Congo pressed harder, twice finding the net only for both goals to be ruled out.
Penalty drama: With the match locked at 1-1 after extra time, substitute goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu emerged as the hero for DR Congo, saving two spot-kicks. Captain Chancel Mbemba converted the decisive penalty to seal a 4-3 shootout victory.
Aftermath: Nigeria, who missed the 2022 World Cup, will now sit out a second consecutive tournament, while DR Congo move on to the intercontinental playoffs, chasing their first World Cup appearance since 1974.
Nigeria’s elimination is a bitter blow for a team that had shown flashes of brilliance during the qualifiers but struggled with consistency. The Super Eagles’ inability to convert chances and their reliance on Osimhen proved costly. Meanwhile, DR Congo’s resilience and tactical discipline underlined their determination to keep their World Cup dream alive.
