The Super Eagles face one of their most decisive matches in recent years as they take on DR Congo tonight in the final of the 2026 World Cup playoff series in Morocco. With the winner moving just one step away from securing a place in the intercontinental playoff, both sides enter the clash knowing the stakes could not be higher.
Nigeria arrive with renewed belief after a dramatic 4–1 extra-time triumph over Gabon in the semifinals. The match, which looked headed for heartbreak, turned around thanks to Victor Osimhen’s brace, Chidera Ejuke’s relentless drive, and the team’s revived attacking rhythm. The performance boosted confidence across Eric Chelle’s squad, especially after earlier inconsistencies in the qualifiers.
DR Congo come into the encounter with momentum of their own, having snatched a late 91st-minute winner against Cameroon. Their semifinal showed a side built on compact defending, tactical discipline and sharp counter-attacks—qualities that will demand full concentration from the Nigerian backline. With attackers like Cedric Bakambu and Nathaniel Nbumku in strong form, the Leopards remain a dangerous opponent.
On paper, Nigeria hold the stronger squad depth, boosted by Osimhen, Akor Adams, Alex Iwobi and Benjamin Frederick—players performing consistently at club level and accustomed to high-pressure fixtures. However, the absence of Wilfred Ndidi through suspension means the midfield balance will rest on either Raphael Onyedika or Frank Onyeka. Semi Ajayi, who missed the Gabon match due to suspension, is expected to return to action.
Osimhen, already carrying a booking, must avoid another yellow card as suspensions remain active until the World Cup proper.
With the match again set on neutral ground in Morocco, neither side will have home advantage—an element that further tightens the tactical margins of this do-or-die showdown.
Fixture: Nigeria vs DR Congo
Date: Sunday, November 16, 2025
Time: 8:00 p.m. (Nigerian time)
Venue: Stade Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan, Morocco
