DR Congo have eliminated Nigeria from the World Cup qualifiers, winning 4-3 in a penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1 after extra time.
Frank Onyeka had given Nigeria the lead in the third minute, but Meschack Elia equalized for DR Congo in the 32nd minute.
The Super Eagles had several chances to win the match, but DR Congo’s goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu made crucial saves in the shootout, and Chancel Mbemba scored the winning penalty.
This is a huge blow for Nigeria, who were hoping to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 2018.
DR Congo will now face the winner of the inter-confederation playoff in March 2026, with two World Cup spots up for grabs.
The Leopards are looking to make their second World Cup appearance, having previously qualified in 1974 as Zaire.
