The Super Eagles' dreams of playing the 2026 World Cup were dashed on Sunday following a 3-4 defeat to DR Congo in a penalty shootout.https://t.co/zRKg27SW02 pic.twitter.com/oGzys1FjlA
— The Sun Nigeria (@thesunnigeria) November 16, 2025
Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup ended after DR Congo beat the Super Eagles on penalties following a 1-1 draw.
According to a VANGUARD NEWS report, Nigeria’s dream of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup came to a painful end on Sunday after DR Congo defeated the Super Eagles on penalties following a tense 1-1 draw in Rabat. Frank Onyeka opened the scoring early for Nigeria before Meschak Elia equalised in the 32nd minute, and despite several missed opportunities in extra time, both teams remained level, forcing a shootout.
Nigeria faltered from the spot, with Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, and Simon all failing to convert, while DR Congo held their nerve to book a place in the intercontinental playoff. The match also saw Nigeria struggle after Victor Osimhen went off injured, leaving the team unable to break down a resilient Congolese defence as their World Cup hopes slipped away.