DR Congo staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Nigeria 4–3 on penalties in the African playoff final for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing a spot in the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March.
The thrilling match, held at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, kicked off at 8 p.m. local time and delivered all the tension expected from such a high-stakes encounter.
Nigeria started brightly, taking an early 1–0 lead through Frank Onyeka in the 3rd minute. However, DR Congo grew into the game and found an equaliser in the 32nd minute, courtesy of Mechak Elia, who capitalised on a defensive lapse.
Both teams pushed hard for a winner, with Nigeria denied twice by excellent goalkeeping and DR Congo coming agonisingly close in the 88th minute when a header rattled the crossbar.
After a goalless extra time, the match headed to penalties. Congolese goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu became the hero of the night, saving two crucial spot-kicks to keep DR Congo’s World Cup hopes alive.
The Congolese players erupted in celebration at the final whistle, knowing they are now one step closer to a historic World Cup qualification.
For Nigeria, the defeat marked a heartbreaking end to their campaign, as missed opportunities and key moments slipped through their grasp.
DR Congo will now turn their focus to the intercontinental playoff in March, where a World Cup spot will be on the line.
