The Super Eagles have failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Their campaign ended in the CAF Playoffs, where they were defeated by the Democratic Republic of Congo on penalties (4-3) after the match remained deadlocked at 1-1, even following extra time.
The penalty shootout win by DRC has qualified them for the Intercontinental Playoffs in Mexico in March 2026.
Semi Ajayi missed the decisive penalty kick in sudden death for DRC to stay on course for a second appearance at the Mundial.
This was after Jerome Akor, Bruno Onyemaechi and Chidera Ejuke scored their penalty kicks and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali saved two of the Congolese penalties.
Nigeria got off to a dream start when they took the lead in the third minute through Frank Onyeka.
DRC drew level in the 34th minute after poor defending by the Super Eagles.
In the second half as well as in extra time, the Congolese were the better side, but they put away the several chances they created against a tired-looking team.
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