 |
Nigeria started with promise, taking an early third-minute lead through Frank Onyeka. However, DR Congo quickly regrouped, finding an equalizer in the 32nd minute via Meschack Elia. The first half finished 1-1, and the Super Eagles suffered a major setback when star striker Victor Osimhen was forced off with an injury at halftime.
The second half and extra time saw an increasingly fatigued Nigerian side struggle to regain offensive rhythm against a determined DR Congo team. Despite some near-misses, the score remained level, forcing the high-stakes encounter into a penalty shootout.
Ultimately, the Leopards secured the 4-3 shootout victory, with a substitute goalkeeper proving to be the hero. This result is a profound disappointment, marking the second consecutive World Cup the Nigerian senior men's team will miss. Focus must now turn to the upcoming AFCON campaign to rebuild and restore national pride.