Overview
- DR Congo prevailed 4-3 in a shootout after a 1-1 draw through extra time in Rabat to win the CAF playoff final.
- Frank Onyeka put Nigeria ahead inside three minutes before Meschack Elia equalised around the half-hour mark.
- Substitute goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu entered just before penalties and made two saves, with captain Chancel Mbemba converting the decisive kick.
- Nigeria’s campaign ends at the playoff stage as they miss the 2026 World Cup, with Victor Osimhen withdrawn at half-time and their attack fading thereafter.
- The Leopards advance to the inter-confederation tournament in March 2026 in Mexico, joining a field that includes Bolivia and New Caledonia, with opponents set by the November 20 draw.