DR Congo kept their 2026 World Cup hopes alive with victory over Nigeria, edging the Super Eagles 4–3 on penalties after a 1–1 draw in Rabat.
The Leopards were forced to hold their nerve deep into the shootout, where captain Chancel Mbemba stepped up to bury the decisive kick.
His moment came after goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu, who was introduced specifically for the shootout, denied Semi Ajayi in the sixth round.
Nigeria had raced ahead in the opening minutes through Frank Onyeka, whose effort took a wicked deflection to beat the goalkeeper.
The Congolese, however, settled into the contest and equalised when Meschack Elia reacted quickest inside the box to level before the break.
With Victor Osimhen withdrawn at half-time, Nigeria’s attacking spark faded and DR Congo began to dictate the tempo.
Mbemba nearly won the tie in extra time, only to be denied by a flying stop from Stanley Nwabali.
The shootout, played under heavy rain, eventually swung in Congo’s favour with Mbemba striking high into the net to seal progress.
Celebrations erupted as the Leopards sprinted across the pitch to salute their supporters.
DR Congo now advance to next March’s intercontinental play-off, one step away from their first World Cup appearance since 1974.
The result also confirms Nigeria’s absence from another global finals, extending their disappointment.
Congo now join Bolivia and New Caledonia as confirmed participants for the six-team FIFA Play-Off Tournament.
