Nigeria's Super Eagles faced a heart-wrenching defeat against DR Congo in the final playoff of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, losing 3-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. This loss in Rabat not only ended months of national anticipation but also marked the second consecutive time Nigeria failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, having missed Qatar 2022. The painful elimination has led to widespread disappointment, alongside calls for accountability and a renewed focus on future tournaments.

The match itself was a tense affair from the onset. Nigeria took an early lead in the 3rd minute through Frank Onyeka, whose shot deflected into the net. However, DR Congo quickly equalized in the 32nd minute with a goal from Meschack Elia, punishing lapses in Nigeria's midfield. The momentum shifted, and despite chances at both ends, neither side could find a winner in regular or extra time, forcing the game into a penalty shootout. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, a standout performer throughout the campaign, kept Nigeria's hopes alive with crucial saves in open play and two stops during sudden death in the shootout. Yet, misses from Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon, and Semi Ajayi ultimately proved costly, allowing DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba to score the decisive penalty, sending the Leopards into the inter-confederation playoffs.

Following the defeat, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle made a controversial claim, alleging that Congolese officials were