Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup came crashing down on Sunday night after a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo, ending a tense and emotional encounter that finished 1-1 in Rabat.
The Super Eagles got off to the perfect start when Frank Onyeka silenced the stadium with a brilliant strike just three minutes into the match. But the early joy didn’t last long — DR Congo hit back in the 32nd minute through Meschak Elia, who punished a moment of defensive hesitation to level the score.
The game grew more heated in extra time as both teams threw everything forward. Nigeria came painfully close on multiple occasions, but poor finishing and a stubborn Congolese defense kept the scores locked at 1-1.
Then came the penalties — and Nigeria’s nightmare began.
Calvin Bassey missed the opening spot-kick, setting a tense tone for the shootout. Semi Ajayi’s effort was brilliantly saved, and Moses Simon also failed to convert. DR Congo, showing nerves of steel, buried their kicks to seal a dramatic victory that sent them into the intercontinental playoff.
The defeat was even harder to bear as Nigeria struggled after Victor Osimhen was forced off with an injury early in the second half. Without their talisman, the Super Eagles lacked sharpness in attack despite lively moments from Arokodare and Onyemaechi.
For DR Congo, the dream lives on as they march into the playoffs with renewed confidence.
For Nigeria, it’s a night that will be remembered with pain — a night of missed chances, missed penalties, and a World Cup dream that slipped away in Rabat.
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