African football has produced countless unforgettable moments, but this clash in Morocco will forever stand out. In a showdown to determine Africa’s representative for the 2026 World Cup global playoff, DR Congo Make History by defeating Nigeria in dramatic fashion. After a 1–1 draw through regular time and extra time, the Leopards triumphed 4–3 on penalties, sealing one of their greatest achievements in decades.
A Historic Journey Continues – DR Congo Make History
The dream of returning to the World Cup—last achieved in 1974 when they played under the name Zaire—is now closer than ever. DR Congo Make History by eliminating Cameroon, then going on to topple yet another African powerhouse in Nigeria. Their resilience, belief, and tactical discipline have carried them to the global playoff round, where their revived World Cup ambition remains very much alive.
From the first whistle, this was a match wrapped in intensity. Highly favored Nigeria struck after just three minutes, when Onyeka reacted quickest to a rebound—helped by a deflection off Tuanzebe. But DR Congo Make History by refusing to crumble.
In the 32nd minute, Bakambu sent a teasing ball across the box, Ndidi misjudged his clearance, and Elia punished the mistake with a composed finish to level the score.
Despite Nigeria’s pressure and two disallowed Congolese goals, the match remained locked at 1–1 through extra time. And so, DR Congo Make History by pushing the giants into a penalty shootout.
In a bold, unforgettable move, backup goalkeeper Fayulu was substituted on specifically for the shootout—mirroring Tim Krul’s legendary appearance for the Netherlands at the 2014 World Cup.
DR Congo Make History as Fayulu became the hero of the night:
- Saving penalties from Simon and Ajayi,
- Watching Bassey miss Nigeria’s first attempt,
- Keeping his composure under immense pressure.
Nigeria’s Nwabali also produced crucial saves, but it wasn’t enough. Captain Chancel Mbemba stepped up and converted the decisive penalty, ensuring DR Congo Make History by winning 4–3.
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What Comes Next? DR Congo Make History and Move to the Global Play-Offs
With this monumental win, DR Congo Make History by joining Bolivia and New Caledonia in the global playoff.
The Asian representative will be decided after the second leg between Iraq and United Arab Emirates (first leg: 1–1).
Meanwhile, the final two spots will be awarded to the best runners-up from the last round of Concacaf qualifying, to be determined on Tuesday (18th).
The two highest-ranked teams in the playoff lineup will advance directly to the final stage, where the last two World Cup tickets will be claimed.
Currently ranked 60th, DR Congo Make History by putting themselves in a position where they might receive a direct slot into the playoff finals—depending on the strength of the other qualifiers.