Nigeria’s quest to qualify for the 2026 World Cup has ended in disappointment after a 4-3 penalty shootout loss to DR Congo in the African play-off final in Rabat, Morocco.
Both teams were vying for a spot in the inter-continental play-off, which will determine the final World Cup qualifiers. Nigeria took an early lead through Onyeka, but DR Congo equalized before halftime. The match remained tense through regulation and extra time.
With the game resorting to a penalty shootout, Nigeria missed two penalties, and DR Congo’s captain Chancel Mbemba scored the decisive last kick, ending Nigeria’s hopes. The final play-off for World Cup qualification will be held in Mexico in March 2026, with DR Congo having a secured spot already.
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