NIGERIA’S WORLD CUP HOPES ENDED BY DR CONGO IN DRAMATIC PENALTY SHOOTOUT

The Super Eagles of Nigeria saw their journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup come to a heartbreaking end on Sunday night after a 4-3 penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo at the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat. The match concluded 1-1 after regulation and extra time, dashing Nigeria’s hopes of advancing to the final playoff stage.

Nigeria started brightly with Frank Onyeka opening the scoring in the third minute, but DR Congo responded through Meschack Elia’s equalizer in the 32nd minute. Despite intense efforts from both sides over 120 minutes, no winner emerged, forcing the game into penalties. In the shootout, Congolese captain Chancel Mbemba calmly converted the decisive spot-kick to seal a 4-3 victory for his team.

“We showed tremendous character tonight,” said Mbemba. “Everyone believed until the end, and we are thrilled to keep our World Cup dream alive.”

Nigeria’s coach expressed disappointment in the outcome. “It’s a tough pill to swallow,” he said. “We had our opportunities but fell short in the shootout. I’m proud of the boys’ effort, but congratulations to DR Congo.”

The victory sends DR Congo to the inter-confederation playoff tournament in Guadalajara and Monterrey, Mexico, next March, where two remaining spots for the 2026 World Cup will be contested.