The Democratic Republic of Congo delivered a monumental blow in the African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, defeating Nigeria in a dramatic penalty shootout (4–3) after a tense, hard-fought 1–1 draw. In Rabat, on the pitch of the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium, the Leopards proved they are ready to fight for a historic ticket: they now advance to the intercontinental playoff to be held in Mexico next March.

The match was a microcosm of the chaos that defines African qualifying. Frank Onyeka struck first for the Super Eagles just three minutes in, capitalizing on a deflection off Axel Tuanzebe that left goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi helpless. But DR Congo, driven by defensive solidity and character, recovered control quickly. At the half-hour mark, Meschack Elia pounced on a mistake by Wilfred Ndidi, attacked the space and finished coolly to level the score.

The clash was played at the limit. Nigeria tried to impose rhythm through Alex Iwobi and the power of Victor Osimhen, who had two big chances denied by Mpasi. At the other end, the transitions from Théo Bongonda and Cédric Bakambu kept goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali on alert. Neither side backed down, and the match drifted into an extra time that was more tactical than emotional.

Mbemba, National Hero and Leader Amid the Chaos

With 120 minutes exhausted, the match went to penalties, where DR Congo showed remarkable composure. The shootout stayed even until Nigeria missed; then captain Chancel Mbemba stepped up and scored the decisive penalty, unleashing an explosion of joy from Sébastien Desabre’s squad.

For DR Congo, who haven’t reached a World Cup since 1974 — when they competed as Zaire — this victory represents far more than a simple win. It is a sign of competitive maturity in an African qualifying campaign defined by exhausting travel, controversial refereeing, shifting venues and an extremely high level of difficulty.

The team has relied on two pillars: a focused defense and the ability to strike at exactly the right moments. That formula allowed them to knock out Cameroon, and now eliminate a Nigeria team chasing its seventh World Cup appearance.

Mexico, the Next Chapter of the Dream

DR Congo will play the intercontinental playoff between March 23 and 31, 2026, on Mexican soil, fighting for one of the final two tickets to the World Cup. The mission will be tough, but the emotional momentum is massive.

Nigeria, meanwhile, leave with the bitter feeling of starting strong without being able to control the match. Osimhen, Iwobi and company showed character, but it wasn’t enough on a night defined by details.

DR Congo live on. They dream. And after surviving the African storm, nothing seems impossible anymore.