Nigeria Out of 2026 World Cup After Penalty Loss to DR Congo

Nigeria's national football team suffered a heartbreaking elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Sunday, losing 4-3 on penalties to the Democratic Republic of Congo after a 1-1 draw in the CAF playoff final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. The defeat marks the Super Eagles' second consecutive failure to reach the tournament, a streak not seen since 1990.

The match began with high intensity as Nigeria, ranked 19 places above their opponents in FIFA standings, took an early lead in the third minute. Midfielder Frank Onyeka scored with a deflected shot, capitalizing on defensive pressure. DR Congo equalized in the 60th minute through forward Meschack Elia's opportunistic finish, exploiting a mistake by Nigeria's Wilfred Ndidi. The game remained tightly contested, with both sides creating chances in the rain-soaked conditions. Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made a crucial save to deny Chancel Mbemba's header in extra time, but star striker Victor Osimhen had been forced off at halftime due to a recurring hamstring injury, visibly limping afterward and now facing scans in Istanbul.

The contest extended to penalties, where drama unfolded. DR...