Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo are set to face off in a high-stakes final playoff match on Sunday, with the winner advancing to a crucial intercontinental qualification round for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Both teams secured their spots in the final after intense semi-final victories played Thursday in Rabat, Morocco. The ultimate winner will move on to a final four-team intercontinental playoff tournament in March.
Nigeria overcame Gabon with a 4-1 scoreline, decided in extra time. The Democratic Republic of Congo edged out Cameroon 1-0 in their semi-final match.
In Nigeria’s dramatic semi-final, Akor Adams opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 78th minute. Gabon’s Mario Lemina, a midfielder for English club Wolverhampton Wanderers, equalized just before full-time in the 89th minute, forcing the game into extra time.
Chidera Ejuke, who plays for Spanish club Sevilla, restored Nigeria’s lead in the 97th minute. Prolific forward Victor Osimhen, who plays for Italian club Napoli, then sealed the victory with two additional goals in the 102nd and 110th minutes.
Hours later, the Democratic Republic of Congo booked their place with a solitary goal from former Porto defender Chancel Mbemba. His decisive strike came in the 90th minute plus one, securing a narrow victory over Cameroon.
The upcoming intercontinental playoff in March will ultimately determine two final spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.