The Democratic Republic of Congo has advanced to the FIFA Inter-Confederation Playoffs after coming from a goal down to draw 1-1 with Nigeria before winning 4–3 on penalties.
With only one spot remaining for a chance to contest a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Nigeria struck first just three minutes into the match through Brentford’s Frank Onyeka, who capitalised on a defensive error inside the Congolese box.
The Leopards remained composed despite the early setback and eventually turned the tide late in the first half. They equalised in the 32nd minute when Meschack Elia tapped in from close range after receiving a pass from Cédric Bakambu. Nigeria’s Wilfred Ndidi failed to clear the danger, and his touch fell kindly to Elia, who made no mistake.
After a tightly contested match—largely dominated by DR Congo, who also had two goals disallowed for fouls in regular time—neither side could find a winner in regulation or extra time, sending the tie to a penalty shootout.
DR Congo held their nerve from the spot, converting four penalties to seal a 4–3 shootout victory.
Nigeria scored through Akor Adams, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Chidera Ejuke, while Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon, and Semi Ajayi missed their attempts.
For DR Congo, successful penalties came from Noah Sadiki, Fiston Mayele, Michael Balikwisha, and captain Chancel Mbemba, who slotted home the decisive kick. Samuel Moutoussamy and Axel Tuanzebe were the only Congolese players who failed to convert.
With Congo scoring four of their spot-kicks while Nigeria faltered with three misses, the Leopards’ quest to qualify for their first FIFA World Cup since 1974 now advances to March’s intercontinental playoffs.
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