Nigeria and DR Congo will clash on Sunday at Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat, Morocco, with a place in the 2026 World Cup inter-confederation playoffs at stake.
The Super Eagles reached this stage after a thrilling 4-1 extra-time triumph over Gabon, while DR Congo secured their spot with a stoppage-time winner from Chancel Mbemba in a 1-0 shock victory against Cameroon.
Match Preview
The encounter with Gabon was dramatic for Nigeria. Akor Adams gave the Super Eagles the lead in the 78th minute following a defensive error, only for Mario Lemina to equalize for the Panthers in the 89th.
Extra time, however, belonged to Eric Chelle’s side, substitute Chidera Ejuke restored Nigeria’s advantage before Victor Osimhen added a brace to seal a decisive win.
Now, Nigeria must overcome DR Congo, who stunned five-time African champions Cameroon with a late goal to set up this high-stakes showdown.
The winner will advance to the inter-confederation playoffs in Mexico next year, where the final two World Cup spots will be decided.
Head-to-Head Record
This will mark the seventh meeting between Nigeria and DR Congo. The Leopards hold a slight edge historically, with three wins to Nigeria’s two, alongside one draw. Their last meeting was a 1-1 friendly draw in 2018.
Team News
Nigeria will be without midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, who is suspended after accumulating yellow cards.
Frank Onyeka is likely to fill the void in Eric Chelle’s diamond midfield. Victor Osimhen, just six goals shy of Rashidi Yekini’s all-time record for Nigeria, will aim to edge closer to the milestone.
DR Congo enter the match without injury concerns or suspensions. West Ham defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka is set to start at right-back, while Cédric Bakambu leads their attack.
Probable Lineups
Nigeria: Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Frederick, Bassey, Sanusi; Chukwueze, Onyeka, Iwobi, Ejuke; Osimhen, Adams
DR Congo: Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Kayemba; Moutoussamy, Pickel, Sadiki; Mbuku, Bakambu, Bongonda
DR Congo displayed defensive grit against Cameroon but will likely face a sterner test against a Nigerian side brimming with attacking firepower.
While the Leopards relied on late luck in their previous match, the Super Eagles’ relentless offense will pose a significant challenge.
