Nigeria vs Congo: Onyeka fires Nigeria into early lead 

Nigeria made a dream start in the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-offs final on Sunday night, going ahead within minutes as Frank Onyeka fired home the opening goal against DR Congo.

The Super Eagles struck early, capitalising on a fast, coordinated build-up that caught the Congolese backline unprepared. Onyeka’s composed finish sent the stadium into uproar and gave Nigeria an immediate advantage in the decisive fixture.

Ahead of kick-off, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle made two changes and switched to a 4-3-3 formation for the crunch encounter.

Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali retained his place between the sticks. Benjamin Fredrick returned at right-back, Zaidu Sanusi started on the left, while Semi Ajayi — back from suspension — paired Calvin Bassey in central defence.

In midfield, Chelle deployed a trio of Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi, tasked with controlling the tempo and cutting off Congo’s passing lanes.

In attack, Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze occupied the wings, with Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray leading the line.