Overview
- DR Congo prevailed 4-3 on penalties in Rabat after a 1-1 draw through extra time, with captain Chancel Mbemba converting the decisive kick.
- Frank Onyeka put Nigeria ahead in the third minute before Meschack Elia levelled on 32 minutes and no winner emerged in 120 minutes.
- Goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu was introduced just before the shootout and produced two saves to tip the contest in DR Congo’s favor.
- The Leopards advance to the six-team inter-confederation playoffs in Mexico in March 2026, with the draw scheduled for November 20.
- Nigeria are out of World Cup contention for 2026, despite Wilfred Ndidi being available after CAF confirmed yellow cards did not carry into the playoff round.