By Rorisang Modiba
- Nigeria score early through Frank Onyeka in their World Cup qualifier, but the Democratic Republic of the Congo fought back and took control of the match.
- The Democratic Republic of the Congo win 4–3 on penalties after a 1–1 draw, knocking Nigeria out and moving on to the global playoffs.
Nigeria’s World Cup dream slipped away in the most painful fashion, and fans felt the sting as the Democratic Republic of Congo held their nerve in a dramatic penalty shootout.
The night started with hope. Frank Onyeka scored in the third minute after his shot took a deflection past Lionel Mpasi-Nzau, sending supporters into early celebrations.
But that joy faded when Meschack Elia finished a slick pass from Cedric Bakambu in the 32nd minute. From that moment, Congo grew in confidence and began to take control.
The blow got heavier when star striker Victor Osimhen left the field at half-time. Without him, the attack struggled to find its spark, even as Chidera Ejuke and Toluwalase Arokodare pushed to change the game.
Stanley Nwabali kept Nigeria alive with several brilliant saves, including a strong stop from Chancel Mbemba’s extra-time header. His efforts carried the team into penalties, giving fans a last piece of hope.
But the shootout turned cruel. Calvin Bassey missed the first kick, and Moses Simon followed with another miss. Nwabali fought back with two huge saves, but when Semi Ajayi’s sudden-death shot was stopped, Mbemba stepped up and scored the winner.
Congo, who last reached the World Cup in 1974, moved on to the inter-confederation playoffs in March.
For Nigeria, the night ended in heartbreak, another failed campaign and a second World Cup missed in a row.
Pictured above: Super Eagles.
Image source: @ng_supereagles
