2026 FIFAWCQ: DR Congo stun Nigeria in penalty shootout to reach intercontinental playoffs

Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup dream came to a heartbreaking end on Sunday night after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in the CAF play-off final.

The Super Eagles started brightly in Rabat, taking the lead in the third minute when Frank Onyeka’s deflected effort wrong-footed the Congolese goalkeeper. The early goal lifted Nigeria’s momentum, but DR Congo gradually grew into the game and equalized in the 32nd minute through Meschack Elia, who finished powerfully from close range.

The second half was tense and cagey, with both sides struggling to find a breakthrough. With the score locked at 1-1 after 120 minutes, the match was decided by penalties — and it was there that DR Congo seized their moment.

Nigeria converted just three of their six spot-kicks, while DR Congo held their nerve, scoring four. Captain Chancel Mbemba delivered the decisive strike, confirming the Leopards’ place in the intercontinental playoffs and ending Nigeria’s campaign in agonizing fashion.

Penalty Shootout Summary

• Nigeria: Three missed, three converted


• DR Congo: Two missed, four converted

In a bold tactical move reminiscent of Louis van Gaal’s 2014 World Cup gamble, DR Congo coach Sébastien Desabre substituted goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi after 120 minutes, bringing on third-choice keeper Timothy Fayulu specifically for the shootout.

The 26-year-old Noah FC shot-stopper, earning just his second cap for the national team, defied expectations with two crucial saves — instantly etching his name into Congolese football folklore.

“A man that had no hope of even keeping the goalposts… has gone against the odds to become a hero for his nation,” one fan remarked.

Fayulu’s performance mirrored Tim Krul’s famous cameo for the Netherlands, and his calm under pressure proved decisive in DR Congo’s historic win.

 Nigeria’s Pain, DR Congo’s Promise

For Nigeria, the defeat marks a painful end to a campaign filled with promise but undone by fine margins. For DR Congo, it’s a moment of belief and momentum — a chance to chase World Cup qualification with renewed confidence.