Nigeria, DR Congo Set for Crucial World Cup Playoff Clash in Morocco

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face the Democratic Republic of Congo today in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup intercontinental playoff, after both sides overcame tense semifinal battles in Morocco.

Nigeria booked their place with an impressive 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon, following a 1–1 draw in regulation time. Chidera Ejuke and Victor Osimhen, who scored twice, delivered the decisive goals to send the Eagles into the final. DR Congo secured their slot with a dramatic 1–0 win over Cameroon, courtesy of Chancel Mbemba’s 91st-minute strike.

The playoff final will be held today, Sunday, November 16, at the Stade Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan in Morocco. Kick-off is 8:00 p.m. Nigerian time, with live coverage on FIFA+ and commentary available on BBC News Pidgin.

Key Players and Team Updates

Nigeria head into the match with stars such as Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams, Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, and Benjamin Fredrick. In a major boost, Wilfred Ndidi, earlier ruled out due to accumulated yellow cards, was cleared by CAF on Saturday and is available to anchor the midfield.

Coach Eric Chelle will be making tactical adjustments to counter a DR Congo side known for physicality, compact defending, and dangerous set-pieces. Former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has warned that while Nigeria are favourites, they must avoid complacency.

Evenly Poised Encounter

Both teams have proven mentally tough during the playoffs, and with no home advantage, the contest will likely hinge on discipline, creativity, and execution under pressure. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali will be crucial for Nigeria, while the attacking trio of Osimhen, Lookman, and Simon are expected to lead the hunt for goals.

Historically, DR Congo hold a slight edge in head-to-head meetings, with three wins to Nigeria’s two, and one draw. Their last encounter was a 1–1 friendly in 2018.

High Stakes

For Nigeria, today’s match is an opportunity to sustain their momentum and secure a place at the 2026 World Cup. For DR Congo, it is a chance to extend their impressive run and upset a higher-ranked opponent.

Whichever side triumphs will do so through a combination of resilience, tactical intelligence, and individual brilliance, the qualities that define World Cup-bound teams.