Chancel Mbemba scored the sudden death penalty to send DR Congo through to next year’s Intercontinental World Cup playoff, at the expense of Nigeria.
Nigeria and DR Congo were tied at 1-1 for 120minutes, Sunday, in the CAF Playoff World Cup final at the Stade Prince Moulay Hassan in Rabat.
Frank Onyeka‘s deflected shot beat the DR Congo goalkeeper to give the Super Eagles after only three minutes.
However, the intensity and focus of the Nigerian players petered allowing the East Africans to capitalize on Wilfred Ndidi’s error.
Meshiak Elia leveled for the Leopards in the 32nd minute and Sebastien Desabre’s men enjoyed long spells in the encounter but were forced to penalties.
Despite brilliant saves from both goalkeepers, the shootout stretched into sudden deaths.
A miss by Semi Ajayi handed DR Congo the advantage, one which captain Chancel Mbemba gladly converted.
It was the 31 year-old’s 101st cap for DR Congo and now he will lead his team to the Intercontinental playoff in March 2026, hoping to pick one of two tickets for the main tournament.
