Overview
- The playoff final in Rabat ended 1-1 after extra time before DR Congo won 5-4 on penalties, with captain Chancel Mbemba converting the winner.
- Victor Osimhen was substituted early in the second half after receiving treatment and watched the shootout from the bench.
- DR Congo coach Sébastien Desabre brought on goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu for the shootout, and he delivered the decisive save.
- Nigeria coach Éric Chelle accused a Congolese staff member of performing “voodoo” by spraying liquid during penalties, an unverified claim that drew heavy criticism.
- Reports noted heavy rain and plastic bottles thrown toward takers during the shootout, as DR Congo progress to March’s play-offs and Nigeria miss a second straight World Cup.