Heartbreak in Rabat as Super Eagles Fall Short
The Nigerian national football team's journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to a crushing end on November 17, 2025, following a dramatic penalty shootout defeat against DR Congo at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The match concluded 1-1 after 120 minutes of intense regulation and extra time, forcing the high-stakes encounter to be decided from the penalty spot, where the Leopards ultimately prevailed.
Early Promise Fades as Opportunities Slip Away
Nigeria made the perfect start to the crucial qualifier, taking the lead in just the third minute of play. Frank Onyeka of Brentford FC capitalized on a deflected low cross from Zaidu Sanusi, firing a powerful strike that clipped defender Arthur Masuaku before finding the back of the net.
The Super Eagles continued to dominate early proceedings, creating several opportunities to extend their advantage. Wilfred Ndidi tested the DR Congo goalkeeper with a long-range volley, while a promising attacking move saw Ndidi and Samuel Chukwueze collide in the box after an Ademola Lookman cut-back, wasting a clear scoring chance.
Costly Missed Chances Prove Decisive
Nigeria's failure to convert their dominance into goals proved costly when DR Congo equalized in the 32nd minute through a swift counter-attack. Cédric Bakambu broke free and squared the ball to Meschack Elia, who calmly slotted past goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to level the score.
The goal transformed the match's dynamics, with DR Congo growing in confidence and effectively neutralizing Nigeria's attacking threat as the first half progressed.
Extra Time Drama and Penalty Agony
Both teams had opportunities to secure victory during extra time. Tolu Arokodare missed a crucial header for Nigeria, while Stanley Nwabali redeemed himself with an important save from a dangerous DR Congo free kick.
With neither side able to break the deadlock after 120 minutes of football, the match proceeded to penalties, where DR Congo held their nerve to advance to the intercontinental playoff, ending Nigeria's World Cup dreams.
This marks another devastating World Cup qualification failure for Nigeria, who last appeared at the global tournament in 2018 when it was hosted in Russia. The Super Eagles and their supporters are left to ponder what might have been after coming so close to keeping their 2026 World Cup hopes alive.
