Breaking: Nigeria crash out as DR Congo win World Cup playoff on penalties

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Nigeria’s 2025 World Cup qualification dream ended in heartbreak on Sunday night as the Super Eagles fell 4-3 to the Democratic Republic of Congo after a dramatic penalty shootout in Rabat, Morocco.

Frank Onyeka ignited Nigerian hopes in the third minute, firing a deflected strike past Lionel Mpasi-Nzau.

But DR Congo responded with confidence, levelling in the 32nd minute when Meschack Elia finished off a flowing move initiated by Cedric Bakambu.

Both sides created chances throughout regulation time, with Stanely Nwabali making crucial stops to deny Bakambu and Mukau, while Nigeria’s forwards struggled to find their rhythm.

A series of injuries and tactical substitutions, including the withdrawal of Victor Osimhen at half-time, further disrupted Nigeria’s momentum.

Extra time brought more tension than quality. DR Congo twice found the net through Mayele and Sadiki, but both efforts were ruled out for fouls.

Nigeria nearly snatched a winner when Chancel Mbemba’s powerful header in the 120th minute was brilliantly saved by Nwabali.

With the match still tied 1–1 after 120 minutes, the tie moved to a penalty shootout that swung wildly from hope to despair.

Akor Adams and Bruno Onyemaechi scored for Nigeria, while Nwabali made an early save from Axel Tuanzebe. But misses from Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon and Semi Ajayi proved costly.

DR Congo, steadier under pressure, converted through Sadiki, Mayele, Balikwisha and Mbemba to seal the 4–3 shootout victory.

Chidera Ejuke scored Nigeria’s lone successful kick after the early makes from Adams and Onyemaechi.