The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) qualified for the 2026 World Cup intercontinental play-offs after defeating Nigeria on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time.
Nigeria took an early lead in the third minute through Frank Onyeka, before DR Congo equalized in the 32nd minute through Meshack Elia.
Both sides continued to press until the final moments of regulation and extra time, but to no avail, forcing the match to penalties.
In the penalty shootout, Nigeria missed three penalties, while DR Congo missed only two, resulting in a 4-3 victory for the Central African nation.
DR Congo’s qualifying campaign was remarkable, as they narrowly missed out on eliminating Senegal in the group stage and then knocked out two giants, Cameroon and Nigeria, in the play-offs.
Now, Congo has a golden opportunity to qualify for the World Cup (for the second time in its history) by winning the intercontinental play-off, which is expected to be held in Mexico and is scheduled for next March.
The play-off will consist of a semi-final round featuring the four lowest-ranked teams. The two winners will then face the two highest-ranked teams, with the final two qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
Bolivia will represent South America, New Caledonia will represent Oceania, two teams will represent North America, and either Iraq or the United Arab Emirates will represent Asia.
