Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup aspirations were abruptly dashed following a dramatic penalty shootout loss to DR Congo. The decisive qualifying playoff match ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time, with the Congolese team ultimately prevailing 4-3 on penalties, extinguishing the Super Eagles’ hopes of reaching the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This marks Nigeria’s second consecutive absence from the World Cup, a streak not seen since the 1986 and 1990 editions.

The match was mired in controversy. Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle alleged that DR Congo employed voodoo rituals during the penalty session. Following Chancel Mbemba’s decisive penalty, Chelle engaged in a heated exchange on the touchline and later told ESPN Africa that he observed a DR Congo official performing unusual acts prior to the shootout.

Nigeria’s campaign had shown promise leading into the playoffs, with strong performances in prior qualifiers. However, inconsistencies in finishing and defensive lapses ultimately proved costly. Analysts have noted that this latest setback underscores systemic issues within the Super Eagles setup, including tactical rigidity and a lack of depth in key positions.

The defeat has triggered widespread reactions across Nigeria. Fans and former players voiced frustration on social media, while sports commentators called for a comprehensive review of the national team’s strategies, player selection, and coaching structure. The Football Federation of Nigeria (FFN) is expected to assess the situation, potentially considering changes to the technical team ahead of future international competitions.

As the nation grapples with this World Cup disappointment, questions loom about the future of Nigerian football, including youth development pipelines, domestic league quality, and the ability to compete on the global stage. For the Super Eagles, rebuilding confidence and implementing long-term reforms will be essential to prevent further heartbreak in upcoming tournaments.