DR Congo advanced to the inter-confederation playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating Nigeria 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the CAF playoff final. Frank Onyeka scored early for Nigeria, but Meschack Elia equalized before the break in Rabat. Chancel Mbemba converted the decisive penalty to shatter Nigeria's hopes.
The match took place on November 16, 2025, at the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, as the final of the CAF playoff phase. Nigeria, known as the Super Eagles, started strongly with Frank Onyeka firing them ahead in the third minute. His shot from the edge of the box glanced off Axel Tuanzebe and wrong-footed DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.
DR Congo, the Leopards, grew into the game and leveled on 32 minutes when Meschack Elia slotted past Stanley Nwabali after Wilfred Ndidi lost possession in midfield. Victor Osimhen went close twice in the second half, with a header drifting wide and another effort saved by Mpasi. Cédric Bakambu tested Nwabali from distance for DR Congo.
Extra time saw few chances as fatigue set in, leading to a penalty shootout. Nigeria's Calvin Bassey missed the first kick by blazing over, while Samuel Moutoussamy's attempt was saved. Moses Simon failed to convert, and Noah Sadiki struck high for DR Congo. Nigeria's Adams scored, but Axel Tuanzebe missed to level it. Bruno Onyemaechi and Fiston Mayele converted, followed by Chidera Ejuke and Balikwisha. Semi Ajayi's shot was pushed aside, allowing captain Chancel Mbemba to roll home the winner down the middle.
DR Congo, last at a World Cup in 1974 as Zaire, now heads to the inter-confederation playoffs from March 23-31, 2026, in Mexico, joining teams like Bolivia and New Caledonia. Nigeria's campaign ends despite their 4-1 extra-time win over Gabon to reach the final, while DR Congo had eliminated Cameroon 1-0.