Nigeria's World Cup dreams were shattered in a dramatic penalty shootout against DR Congo on November 16, 2025. The match, a CAF World Cup playoff final, saw the Super Eagles fall to the Leopards, ending their chances of a second consecutive World Cup appearance.
The game began with a bright start for Nigeria, as Frank Onyeka opened the scoring early. However, Meschack Elia responded with a goal later in the first half, leveling the score at 1-1. The second half and extra time failed to produce any further goals, setting the stage for a nail-biting penalty shootout.
Chancel Mbemba stepped up for DR Congo and delivered the decisive spot kick, sending the Leopards to the inter-confederation playoff. This marks DR Congo's first World Cup appearance since 1974, when the nation was known as Zaire. DR Congo's victory was a significant achievement, considering their previous success in the African Cup of Nations, having won it twice in 1968 and 1974.
Nigeria, on the other hand, faces a disappointing exit from the World Cup race for the third time since 2006 and the second time in a row. Their qualifying campaign didn't go as planned, and they struggled to regain momentum, ultimately falling short in the playoff.
The Leopards now advance to a six-team playoff against teams from Concacaf, CONMEBOL, Oceania, and Asia. This playoff will determine two of the six teams that will secure spots in the 2026 World Cup hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
