Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended on Sunday night after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo.

The Super Eagles took an early lead in the third minute through Frank Onyeka, but DR Congo equalised in the 32nd minute via Meschak Elia following a midfield error by Alex Iwobi. Victor Osimhen had to be substituted early in the second half due to injury, disrupting Nigeria’s attack.

After 120 minutes ended 1–1, the match went to penalties. Calvin Bassey missed Nigeria’s first attempt, and despite key saves from goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, Semi Ajayi failed to convert Nigeria’s seventh kick. DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba scored the decisive penalty to seal victory.

The result means Nigeria will not feature at the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, marking the first time the Super Eagles have missed back-to-back tournaments since 1994.