DR Congo Send Nigeria Crashing Out on Penalties to Book Intercontinental Playoff Spot.

Rabat was the stage for a bitter Nigerian heartbreak last night as the Super Eagles saw their World Cup hopes slip away in a dramatic shootout, with DR Congo holding their nerve to claim a 4–3 victory after a one all draw that stretched through extra time. It was the kind of football night that tightens jaws and quickens pulses, the outcome volatile, and the game open. Frank Onyeka had handed Nigeria an early spark with a deflected strike inside the opening minutes, raising belief that a place in the next round was within reach. That optimism did not last. A defensive slip allowed Meshack Elia to drag DR Congo level before the half hour, and the contest grew increasingly tense from there. Chances dried up in extra time, leaving penalties to decide the night. That was where it all unraveled for Nigeria. Calvin Bassey missed the first effort, Semi Ajayi had his attempt turned away, and the momentum shifted sharply. DR Congo remained composed, and with their substitute goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu making the difference, captain Chancel Mbemba stepped forward to fire his side into the intercontinental playoff and set off a celebration that echoed long after the final whistle. For Nigeria, the disappointment was compounded by the sight of Victor Osimhen hobbling off at half time. For DR Congo, the dream lives on, and the next ninety minutes of football could yet carry them to the World Cup stage.

| 2025-11-17 07:36:12