A Night of High Drama in Rabat
DR Congo pulled off one of the biggest shocks of the African World Cup playoffs, beating six-time World Cup qualifiers Nigeria 4-3 on penalties after a gripping 1-1 draw that stretched through extra time. The victory sends the Congolese into March’s inter-confederation playoffs, where six teams will battle for two spots at the expanded 48-team 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Fast Start for Nigeria, Quick Response from Congo
Nigeria struck early through Frank Onyeka in the third minute, capitalising on a poorly cleared cross and a small deflection off Axel Tuanzebe. DR Congo nearly responded instantly but wasted a golden chance when Ngal’ayel Mukau missed from close range.
Their equaliser eventually came in the 32nd minute — a swift counterattack after Alex Iwobi lost possession, allowing Cedric Bakambu to set up Meschack Elia, whose finish levelled the match despite Wilfred Ndidi’s interception attempt.
Congo Push Forward While Nigeria Fade
With fatigue weighing heavily on Nigeria — who required extra time to overcome Gabon in the semifinal — DR Congo began to assert greater control. They threatened through a clever Bakambu back-heel at a corner and felt denied a penalty when Noah Sadiki appeared to be brought down by Benjamin Fredrick, but both referee and VAR showed no interest.
As the contest tightened, both sides adopted caution, aware that a single mistake could end their World Cup ambitions.
Extra Time Nerves and a Goalkeeper Masterstroke
Extra time produced chances for both teams. Nigeria’s Tolu Arokodare headed over, while Chancel Mbemba saw a last-second effort saved by Stanley Nwabali.
Sensing the shootout, DR Congo made a bold tactical call — bringing on substitute goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu in the 119th minute. The decision proved inspired: Fayulu saved twice in the shootout before captain Mbemba sealed the historic win.
A Step Closer to a First World Cup Since 1974
The result keeps DR Congo dreaming of their first World Cup appearance in over five decades, dating back to 1974 when they competed as Zaire. They now await Thursday’s draw to learn their inter-confederation playoff opponents.
With African heavyweights Egypt, Senegal, Morocco, South Africa, Ghana, Tunisia, Algeria, Ivory Coast and Cape Verde already qualified, DR Congo’s journey stands out as one of the continent’s most compelling stories.
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