Nigeria’s Group C World Cup Qualifier Journey and Final Standings

Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup disappeared after a dramatic penalty shootout loss to DR Congo in Rabat. Both teams stayed level after 120 minutes, with Frank Onyeka and Meschak Elia scoring in the first half.

This result puts DR Congo into the inter-confederation World Cup play-offs in March. The match didn’t lack drama, as Nigeria’s manager Eric Chelle accused DR Congo players of using ‘voodoo’ during the penalties, which a DR Congo representative quickly denied.

Nigeria’s Road to the Play-Offs

Nigeria’s journey through the qualifiers was a real rollercoaster. They finished second in Group C, just behind South Africa, who led with 18 points.

Nigeria and Benin both ended up with 17 points, but Nigeria squeezed through on goal difference to grab the play-off spot. The early stages were rough—Nigeria didn’t win any of their first four matches.

Things changed after Eric Chelle took over as manager in January. Under his leadership, Nigeria won four and drew two of their last qualifiers, which was a huge turnaround.

Key Players and Performances

Nigeria’s squad for the international break mixed experience with younger players. The goalkeepers were Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, and Maduka Okoye.

On defense, they had Semi Ajayi, Chidozie Awaziem, and Calvin Bassey. In midfield, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Frank Onyeka (who scored in the play-off) stood out.

The forwards included Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, and Ademola Lookman. Honestly, that’s a pretty solid lineup by any standard.

DR Congo’s Path to Victory

DR Congo’s road to the play-offs was just as wild. The team showed resilience and skill, earning their shot at Nigeria in the decisive match.

Now, with the win in Rabat, DR Congo heads to the inter-confederation World Cup play-offs in March. Their squad was a good blend of talent—goalkeepers Matthieu Epolo, Timothy Fayulu, and Lionel Mpasi held things down at the back.

Defensively, Rocky Bushiri, Steve Kapuadi, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka brought stability. In midfield, Michel-Ange Balikwisha, Theo Bongonda, and Meschak Elia (who scored their goal) made a real impact.

Notable Performances and Strategies

DR Congo played with strategy and grit. They managed to keep Nigeria at bay, forcing a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes and taking the match to penalties.

In the shootout, DR Congo kept their nerve and came out on top. That win puts them just one step away from the World Cup.

The Controversy Surrounding the Match

The play-off wasn’t short on controversy. Nigeria’s manager Eric Chelle accused DR Congo of using ‘voodoo’ during penalties, which definitely raised a few eyebrows.

A DR Congo representative shot down the claim, insisting the team played fair and kept their focus on the game. Whether you believe it or not, the drama certainly added another layer to the story.

Implications for Future Campaigns

This play-off result really shifts things for both teams. For DR Congo, advancing gives them a real shot at the 2026 World Cup if they can keep up this level of play.

Nigeria, meanwhile, has to regroup. The improvement under Eric Chelle is promising, and with some reflection and fresh planning, maybe they’ll bounce back stronger next time.

Conclusion

The Nigeria vs. DR Congo play-off had everything—drama, skill, and a fair bit of controversy. Nigeria’s World Cup hopes slipped away in a tense penalty shootout.

DR Congo’s win nudges them closer to the 2026 World Cup. Both teams showed grit and flashes of real talent during the qualifiers.