Nigeria vs DR Congo: Listless Super Eagles’ World Cup hopes end on a whimper in Rabat

The Super Eagles will not be heading to the 2026 FIFA World Cup after falling to the Democratic Republic of Congo in a dramatic penalty shootout in Rabat.

Eric Chelle’s side held a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes, but missed opportunities from the spot proved costly in the end as the Leopards edged Nigeria 4-3 on penalties.

Frank Onyeka had given the Super Eagles an early lead in the third minute through a deflected strike, but a lapse in midfield allowed DR Congo back into the match in the 32nd minute. Cedrick Bakambu’s cross found its target despite Wilfred Ndidi's attempt at a clearance, and Meshack Elia struck to level the score and set the stage for a hard-fought match.

No 2026 World Cup for Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles

Despite a couple of chances and periods of dominance for both, neither side could not break through again, and the match eventually went to spot-kicks. The disappointment will be felt across the squad, fans, and the technical team, as another opportunity to secure World Cup qualification slipped away.

Having missed the 2022 World Cup in Qatar in the playoffs to Ghana, Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 edition have again been dashed. Stanley Nwabali came close to being the hero, making two crucial saves in the shootout, but penalty misses from Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon, and Semi Ajayi proved decisive.

Attention now turns to the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where Nigeria will aim for a fourth continental title. The Super Eagles have been drawn in a challenging group alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda, setting up a fresh campaign to reclaim their place at the summit of African football.

It, however, remains to be see whether Chelle will be in charge for next month's African showpiece, considering his brief upon appointment was to qualify Nigeria for the World Cup.