17.11.2025 20:30
In the final of the 2026 Africa World Cup Qualifiers play-off, Nigeria faced the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Democratic Republic of Congo won 4-3 on penalties, earning the right to participate in the inter-confederation play-offs. Nigeria's superstar Victor Osimhen was injured and could not return for the second half. In the footage that emerged after the match, it was seen that Osimhen got injured during a challenge with former Beşiktaş player Masuaku.
In the final of the 2026 Africa World Cup Qualifiers play-off, Nigeria faced the Democratic Republic of Congo. The match, played at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Morocco, ended 1-1 after 90 minutes and extra time. The Democratic Republic of Congo secured their place in the inter-confederation play-offs by defeating their opponent 4-3 in penalties.
GOALS CAME EARLY
Nigeria took the lead in the 3rd minute with a goal from Ogochukwu Onyeka, but they could not maintain their advantage. Alanyaspor's star Elia Meschack equalized for the Democratic Republic of Congo with a goal in the 32nd minute.
OSIMHEN INJURED, POST-MATCH FOOTAGE BECAME A TOPIC
Nigeria's superstar Victor Osimhen could not continue into the second half and was substituted in the 46th minute. Footage that emerged after the match revealed that Osimhen was injured in a situation involving Masuaku. The intervention of the Galatasaray star drew significant reactions from the Nigerian side.
NDIDI ON THE FIELD FOR 120 MINUTES
Wilfred Ndidi, who plays for Leicester City, was one of the most active players on the field, contributing for 120 minutes in the match.
THE TEAM GOING TO THE INTER-CONFEDERATION PLAY-OFF
The Democratic Republic of Congo, who won the penalty shootout 4-3, continued their journey with a major surprise. Despite their star-studded squad, Nigeria had to postpone their World Cup dreams once again.