In a high-stakes encounter, Nigeria's Super Eagles are set to clash with the Leopards of DR Congo tonight in the final of the CAF World Cup playoffs. This decisive match will determine which nation secures an automatic ticket to the Intercontinental World Cup playoffs next March, bringing them one step closer to the 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament.

The Super Eagles enter this final with confidence, having secured a dramatic 4-1 extra-time victory over Gabon in the semi-finals. While their initial wastefulness in front of goal forced an additional 30 minutes, Eric Chelle's men ultimately powered through. All invited players are reportedly fit, including Besiktas midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, who has been cleared to feature and will play a crucial shielding role in the midfield.

DR Congo, equally determined, earned their spot by stunning Cameroon with a last-minute winner from captain Chancel Mbemba. The Leopards narrowly missed direct qualification in their main group, finishing just two points behind Senegal. With their last World Cup appearance dating back to 1974, this match represents a monumental opportunity for them to rewrite history. Super Eagles captain William Ekong acknowledged the challenge, describing the Congolese as a "big challenge" and "a mountain to climb," noting their toughness and ambition.

Coach Eric Chelle has made significant tactical adjustments for this final, switching from the 4-2-2-2 setup used against Gabon to a 4-3-3 formation against DR Congo. This change is strategically aimed at countering DR Congo's younger and more skilled midfielders, requiring Nigeria to have more bodies in the middle of the park. Stanley Nwabali retains his position in goal for Nigeria.

The defensive line features Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey as the center-back pairing, with Benjamin Fredrick moving to right-back and Zaidu Sanusi maintaining his role at left-back. In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi anchors the team, supported by the dynamic duo of Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka. Upfront, Galatasaray star Victor Osimhen, as expected, leads the line, flanked by Ademola Lookman on the left and Samuel Chukwueze on the right, promising a potent attack.

Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka emphasized the team's commitment, stating, "We know how important this game is, so we'll go all in and by God's grace, we'll come out with a victory and Nigerians will be happy." He added, "It's a tough route, yet our focus must be on emerging as Africa’s number one and securing a spot at the FIFA World Cup. It won’t be easy, but we have to give everything."

Captain William Ekong also highlighted the immense motivation within the squad. Out of 24 players, only about four – Ekong, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Chidozie Awaziem – have previously experienced a World Cup (Russia 2018). He remarked, "There is that adrenalin flowing in their system to go to the World Cup and I see it as a big motivation for us to conquer on Sunday."

The crucial match is scheduled to kick off at 8 PM WAT this Sunday evening at the Complexe Sportif Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan in Rabat. Both teams have assembled their strongest available squads, with DR Congo notably bringing a host of Europe-based talents. Football fans can expect a thrilling encounter as both nations vie for a chance to extend their World Cup dreams.