Five Key Takeaways as Super Eagles Fall to DR Congo in World Cup Playoff Final

Five Key Takeaways as Super Eagles Fall to DR Congo in World Cup Playoff Final

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria’s hopes of securing a place in the FIFA Intercontinental Playoff were dashed on Sunday night after the Super Eagles fell 5–4 on penalties to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final of the African World Cup playoff in Morocco, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Super Eagles had taken the lead earlier in the match, but DR Congo staged a comeback to force a draw before ultimately prevailing in the shootout. Nigeria converted three of their six penalties while Congo scored four, sealing the Central African nation’s ticket to the playoff tournament scheduled for March 2026 in Mexico.

The defeat means Nigeria will miss consecutive World Cups, having failed to qualify for the 2022 edition as well. For DR Congo, the victory represents a major milestone as they move one step closer to a long-awaited return to global football.

Below are BSN Sports' five technical lessons drawn from Nigeria’s performance:

1. Absence of Osimhen Exposes Nigeria’s Attacking Limitations

The Super Eagles once again appeared diminished without talismanic striker Victor Osimhen. His absence after he was substituted left the attack lacking mobility, aggression, and cutting edge.

2. Nwabali Restores Confidence With Crucial Saves

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali delivered an improved performance, making two penalty saves and preventing a last-minute goal in regulation time efforts that helped redeem his image after recent criticism.

3. Double-Striker Experiment Fails to Deliver

The introduction of Tolu Arokodare and Akor Adams had little impact on the match. Both strikers struggled to influence play, with Arokodare eventually substituted after failing to provide the expected spark.

4. Substitutes Offer Limited Influence

Of the four players (Chidera Ejuke, Moses Simon, Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams and Onyemaechi ) introduced from the bench, only Onyemaechi made a noticeable contribution. The other substitutes failed to shift the momentum in Nigeria’s favor.

5. Tactical Shift Undermines Rhythm

A change from a diamond midfield to a wide-playing structure disrupted Nigeria’s cohesion. Long balls from the back bypassed the midfield, leaving attackers unable to maintain possession in the opposition half and contributing to Congo’s extended dominance particularly for 75 minutes of regular play.