Nigeria’s quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has ended in heartbreak after the Super Eagles fell 4-3 on penalties to DR Congo in Sunday’s CAF Playoff final in Rabat.

The match ended 1-1 after 120 tense minutes. Frank Onyeka gave Nigeria the perfect start in the third minute when his strike deflected off Axel Tuanzebe and wrong-footed goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. But DR Congo grew into the contest and levelled in the 32nd minute through Elia.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle made several changes from the semifinal win over Gabon, moving Benjamin Fredrick to right-back, restoring Semi Ajayi to partner Calvin Bassey in central defence, and keeping Stanley Nwabali in goal.

However, Nigeria’s attacking rhythm faltered early in the second half when Victor Osimhen, influential in the buildup, was substituted at halftime for Akor Adams.

Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze were also withdrawn for Moses Simon and Chidera Ejuke, but Nigeria’s attacking threat diminished significantly. Without Osimhen’s power and presence, the Super Eagles struggled to sustain pressure.

Nigeria pushed in the closing stages, with Tolu Arokodare coming on for Alex Iwobi, yet DR Congo held firm.

Extra time followed, Nigeria’s second consecutive 120-minute battle, and although Eric Chelle introduced Bruno Onyemaechi for the fatigued Zaidu Sanusi, the Leopards controlled much of the added period. Still, Nigeria’s defence resisted forcing a penalty shootout.

In the decisive moment, DR Congo held their nerve, converting four of their five kicks to seal a 4-3 shootout victory and advance to the intercontinental playoffs in March.

For Nigeria, the defeat is a devastating blow. The Super Eagles have now missed back-to-back World Cups after failing to qualify for Qatar 2022. Their last appearance was at Russia 2018, where they exited in the group stage.