By NIGERIA will not feature at the 2026 World Cup in Canada, the United States, and Mexico after losing to DR Congo on penalties in a tightly contested African play-off final on Sunday.
The game, played in Rabat, Morocco, ended 1–1 after normal and extra time. However, the Leopards of DR Congo prevailed 4–3 in the ensuing shoot-out to claim Africa’s sole ticket for the intercontinental play-offs scheduled for March next year.
Nigeria had taken an early lead just three minutes into the match when midfielder Frank Onyeka struck to give the Super Eagles the advantage.
The three-time African champions pushed for a second goal but failed to convert their chances.
As the game progressed, the Central Africans settled into their rhythm, dictating the tempo.
Their pressure paid off in the 32nd minute when Mechak Elia levelled the score, leaving Nigeria on the back foot.
The first half ended all square, but the major talking point at the restart was the absence of Victor Osimhen, who did not return for the second half.
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