The stage is absolutely set as Nigeria’s Super Eagles and DR Congo’s Leopards sq. off for Africa’s solely ticket to the Inter-confederation Playoffs of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Tonight’s showdown takes place on the iconic Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay El Hassan in Rabat, the place each groups arrive figuring out that solely a win will preserve their World Cup hopes alive.
Nigeria booked their place on this ultimate after a dramatic 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon, a recreation that stretched their nerves and self-discipline earlier than they lastly pulled away in additional time.
DR Congo, on their half, confirmed grit and organisation of their final outing, sealing a 1–0 stoppage-time win over Cameroon to arrange this high-stakes struggle with the Eagles.
READ ALSO: Nigeria vs DR Congo (PREVIEW): Tremendous Eagles face must-win take a look at
Now, each side enter a straight, unforgiving shootout—90 minutes (or extra) that may determine Africa’s consultant within the international playoff spherical.
With no second probabilities, each sort out, each probability, and each determination tonight in Rabat might outline the World Cup path of a complete nation.
Stick with PREMIUM TIMES for reside updates as all of the drama unfolds.
Kickoff is 8:00 p.m.
Nigeria Beginning XI vs DR Congo:
Staff information
The Tremendous Eagles have named a powerful and attack-minded lineup for tonight’s essential World Cup qualifier in opposition to DR Congo on the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat, with two adjustments created from the facet that defeated Gabon final week.
Stanley Nwabali retains his place in purpose, sustaining his regular kind as Nigeria look to construct momentum within the race for a playoff spot.
In defence, Benjamin Fredrick has been moved to the appropriate facet of defence as Shiny Osayi-Samuel drops to the bench whereas Zaidu Sanusi begins once more on the left. Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey full the backline, giving Nigeria a mixture of energy, expertise, and composure as they put together for what is predicted to be a bodily demanding contest.
Wilfred Ndidi, who captains the facet, anchors the midfield together with his ordinary authority.
He’s joined by Frank Onyeka, whereas Alex Iwobi takes up the inventive function.
Iwobi’s job is evident: preserve the ball transferring easily, hyperlink play, and discover openings between DR Congo’s strains.
His calm decision-making and fast passing can be important as Nigeria attempt to management the rhythm of the sport.
Within the assault, Ademola Lookman begins on the left, Samuel Chukwueze operates from the appropriate, and Victor Osimhen leads the road. Osimhen, who scored within the final match, will once more be the main risk up entrance, utilizing his tempo, power, and ending to bother the Congolese defence.
A win tonight would push Nigeria one step nearer to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
