DR Congo Eliminate Super Eagles in Heart-Stopping World Cup Playoff on Penalties

In a dramatic CAF playoff final in Rabat, DR Congo knocked out Nigeria’s Super Eagles on penalties after a 1–1 draw. Frank Onyeka gave Nigeria an early lead in the 3rd minute, but Meschack Elia equalized for the Leopards on 32 minutes. After a tense 120 minutes with little separating the sides, the match went to a shootout. Both teams traded early misses, but DR Congo held their nerve — captain Chancel Mbemba stepped up to smash home the decisive spot-kick. The Leopards won 4–3 on penalties, denying Nigeria a place at the 2026 World Cup. It’s a crushing blow for the Super Eagles, whose World Cup hopes have ended yet again. DR Congo now advance to the inter-continental playoffs in March for a shot at the finals.