ONYEKA
By Victor Eludire|Sports Correspondent
Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended in heartbreak on Sunday as the Super Eagles fell 4–3 on penalties to DR Congo after a tense 1–1 draw in Rabat. The defeat marked a second consecutive World Cup miss for Nigeria, the first time the nation has failed to qualify for back-to-back editions since making its debut in 1994.
Frank Onyeka gave Nigeria a dream start, firing home in the 3rd minute, but DR Congo grew steadily into the contest. Meschack Elia levelled before halftime, capitalising on defensive hesitation to drag the Central Africans back into the tie. Nigeria, coming off an exhausting extra-time win over Gabon in the previous round, appeared leg-weary as the match wore on.
Both sides created chances in a cagey second half and extra time, but neither could find a breakthrough. The Super Eagles’ fatigue became evident, with DR Congo looking sharper in transitions and more composed in possession as the final whistle approached.
The penalty shootout proved nerve-shredding, with four kicks saved and another missed under heavy rain. DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba held his nerve to bury the decisive spot kick, even as a bottle was hurled in his direction from the stands, sealing his nation’s place in the inter-continental playoffs in Mexico next March.
Post-match drama intensified when Nigeria coach Eric Chelle accused a member of the DR Congo staff of using “voodoo” during the match, claiming he saw hand gestures “sprinkling something” on the pitch. His comments added controversy to an already disappointing night, as the Super Eagles face another painful reflection on a campaign that fell short once again.
