FIFA W’CUP 2026: Nigeria Misses Out After Penalty Shootout Defeat To DR Congo

FIFA W’CUP 2026: Nigeria Misses Out After Penalty Shootout Defeat To DR Congo

Nigeria will not feature at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the Super Eagles were beaten by the Democratic Republic of Congo in the CAF playoff final on Sunday night.

The Super Eagles opened scoring in the first half when Frank Onyeka’s strike took a deflection and found the net. DR Congo drew level shortly after, with Mechak Elia punishing a defensive blunder to slot past Stanley Nwabali.

The match remained 1-1 after 120 minutes and proceeded to penalties, where Nigeria faltered.

Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon and Semi Ajayi all missed from the spot, allowing the Leopards to seal victory and secure Africa’s ticket to the intercontinental playoffs.

DR Congo will now compete in the six-team intercontinental qualifying tournament scheduled for March 23–31, 2026, which will determine the final two World Cup slots.