The Super Eagles of Nigeria saw their 2026 FIFA World Cup hopes dashed on Sunday after falling to the Leopards of DR Congo in a tense penalty shoot-out in the CAF playoff final.

Nigeria struck early through Frank Onyeka, whose third-minute effort took a deflection and nestled into the net to hand the Super Eagles a bright start. DR Congo, however, fought their way back, with Meschak Elia firing home the equaliser just after the half-hour mark following a misplaced pass in midfield and a failed clearance inside the box.

Stanley Nwabali produced two crucial saves in the shoot-out, yet it ultimately proved insufficient as Chancel Mbemba stepped up to bury the decisive penalty, sealing DR Congo’s place in the inter-continental playoffs scheduled for next March in Mexico.

Nigeria made two notable changes from Thursday’s victory over Gabon. Semi Ajayi returned from suspension to reclaim his place in the starting line-up, while Frank Onyeka was handed a start in midfield. Young defender Benjamin Fredrick also featured from the onset at right-back, replacing Bright Osayi-Samuel. Meanwhile, Thursday’s goalscorer, Akor Adams, began on the bench.

After Onyeka’s opener, Wilfred Ndidi came close to doubling the advantage with a long-range effort before a mix-up between Ndidi and Samuel Chukwueze wasted a promising move created by Ademola Lookman. Those missed chances proved costly as DR Congo capitalised to restore parity.

The second half brought a significant setback for Nigeria as Victor Osimhen was forced off with an injury, paving the way for Akor Adams. The Super Eagles struggled to find rhythm thereafter, despite the introductions of Chidera Ejuke and Moses Simon to inject creativity into the flanks.

Clear chances remained scarce, though Nwabali nearly gifted the Leopards a goal before recovering superbly to deny a certain finish. With neither side able to find a breakthrough, the match proceeded through extra time and ultimately to penalties, mirroring the drama of Thursday’s fixture.

In the end, DR Congo held their nerve to triumph 4–3 from the spot, advancing to the final qualification window that will determine the last two teams for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

For Nigeria, the journey ends in painful fashion, one penalty short of keeping their World Cup dream alive.