Nigeria’s hopes of returning to the World Cup stage have ended after a punishing playoff defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo
The tense showdown in Rabat went all the way to penalties, where the Super Eagles fell short in what will go down as one of their most painful setbacks in years.
After missing the 2022 World Cup, Nigeria were desperate to reclaim their place among world football’s elite in 2026. But DR Congo shattered that ambition, battling through the final and denying Eric Chelle’s side the chance to reach the tournament.
With the loss, Nigeria are now officially out of contention and will miss back-to-back World Cups despite qualifying for six of the previous seven editions.
DR Congo’s dramatic triumph keeps their dream alive as they advance to the inter-confederation playoff. Six teams will scrap for the last two spots at the 2026 World Cup, and DR Congo—enjoying a remarkable, against-the-odds run through African qualifiers—now stand one step away from making their first appearance since 1974, when they featured as Zaire in West Germany.
Follow Us on Facebook – @LadunLiadi; Instagram – @LadunLiadi; Twitter – @LadunLiadi; Youtube – @LadunLiadiTV for updates
