Nigeria Miss out on 2026 World Cup after Penalty Shootout Defeat to DR Congo

Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended on Sunday night after the Super Eagles lost 4–3 on penalties to DR Congo in the African playoffs, following a tense 1–1 draw after extra time.

The night had begun brightly for Nigeria, who took the lead in just the third minute when Frank Onyeka’s deflected effort beat goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. The early goal energised the home crowd and gave the Super Eagles a strong foothold, with Wilfred Ndidi soon forcing another save as Nigeria pressed for a second.

But momentum shifted when Alex Iwobi was dispossessed in midfield in the 32nd minute, allowing Cedric Bakambu to set up Meschak Elia for an easy tap-in to bring DR Congo level. Nigeria ended the half pressing forward but failed to make their set-pieces count.

The match turned again early in the second half as striker Victor Osimhen, already shaken by an accidental elbow from Aaron Wan-Bissaka, was forced off injured and replaced by Akor Adams. Without their leading forward, Nigeria struggled to hold possession, while DR Congo gained control and repeatedly pushed the hosts back.

The Leopards thought they had won a penalty after a challenge involving Arthur Masuaku and Semi Ajayi, but VAR waved the appeal away. Nigeria’s substitutes, including Moses Simon and Chidera Ejuke, made little impact as DR Congo continued to carve out the clearer chances.

Extra time offered little relief for the Super Eagles. DR Congo had a goal disallowed in the 109th minute for a foul in the buildup, while Nigeria’s only notable opportunity came from a header by Tolu Arokodare that went over the bar. The match drifted to penalties with Nigeria largely on the defensive.

The shootout began badly when Calvin Bassey missed Nigeria’s opening kick. But goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali produced two crucial saves to keep Nigeria in contention as Adams, Bruno Onyemaechi and Ejuke converted their efforts. With both sides level deep into sudden death, Semi Ajayi stepped up for Nigeria’s seventh penalty but missed.

DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba then converted decisively, sending Nwabali the wrong way and sealing a memorable victory for the visitors, while ending Nigeria’s World Cup ambitions.

The defeat means Nigeria will not appear at the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States. It is the first time the Super Eagles have failed to qualify for consecutive World Cups since making their debut at the tournament in 1994.