The Democratic Republic of Congo snatched a qualification at the end of the suspense against Nigeria, Sunday, in the play-off of the Africa zone of the 2025 World Cup qualifiers. The Congolese won on penalties (3-2), after a draw (1-1) at the end of regulation time and overtime. A success rich in emotions, won in Rabat, Morocco, where the next CAN will also take place.
However, the meeting started in the worst way for the Leopards. From the 3rd minute, Frank Onyeka gave the Super Eagles the advantage. But the Congolese had the merit of never panicking. Their reaction was progressive, built and rewarded in the 32nd minute by the equalizer from Meschack Elia, perfectly served by Cédric Bakambu after a quick transition.
Nigeria, already deprived of several executives, lost Victor Osimhen who was injured during the break. A hard blow which weighed on the Nigerian offensive animation, even if the Super Eagles remained threatening in sequences.
Fayulu and Mbemba as heroes
Extra time did not produce a winner, and the DRC coach then attempted a daring gamble: bringing in Timothy Fayulu, the replacement goalkeeper, in the final minutes. A winning choice. The goalkeeper released two Nigerian shots during the session, while Calvin Bassey missed the target.
The Leopards then finished the job thanks to their captain Chancel Mbemba, author of the decisive shot on goal, who had already scored in the previous play-off against Cameroon (1-0).
This victory does not yet qualify the DRC for the World Cup: it opens the doors to the intercontinental play-off tournament, where it will face Bolivia, New Caledonia, the winner of Iraq-United Arab Emirates, an additional Asian nation and two teams from the CONCACAF zone. A final step before the global dream.
