Super Eagles crash out of World Cup playoff after DR Congo penalty shootout loss: Super Eagles took the lead as early as the 4th minute through Frank Onyeka, but DR Congo levelled the score in the 32nd minute.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nigeria’s Super Eagles missed out on the opportunity to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after losing to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) in the final of the CAF playoff on penalties.
The encounter, which was played at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex, Rabat, on Sunday night, ended 1-1 after extra time.
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Nigeria took the lead as early as the 4th minute through Brentford midfielder, Frank Onyeka, but DR Congo levelled the score in the 32nd minute through Mechak Elias.
Both teams were unable to find the decisive goal in regulation and extra time, and they had to be separated by a penalty shootout.
DR Congo, however, progressed after converting 4 out of their 6 spot kicks. They will now compete in the Intercontinental Playoff scheduled for March 2026 in Mexico.
