By peace Udugba
Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been dashed following a heartbreaking penalty shootout loss to DR Congo.
The Super Eagles, led by Victor Osimhen, started strong with an early goal in the 3rd minute by Frank Onyeka. However, DR Congo equalized in the 32nd minute through Meschack Elia, sending the match into extra time.
Despite a determined effort from Nigeria, the game remained level, and DR Congo clinched victory in the penalty shootout, securing a place in the inter-confederation playoff.
The result has sparked widespread reactions from fans and analysts, as Nigeria will now miss a second consecutive World Cup, having also failed to qualify for Qatar 2022.
