The Democratic Republic of Congo pulled off a shock result in the FIFA World Cup CAF qualifying playoff on Thursday, defeating Cameroon 1-0 to book their place in Sunday’s decisive final against Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Soccernet.ng reports.
In a cagey encounter in Rabat, both sides matched each other stride for stride, with neither team able to impose clear dominance through the opening 90 minutes.
Possession was evenly shared, both teams registered two shots on target apiece, and the midfield battle was as tight as it was tactical.
Just when extra time seemed inevitable, DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba delivered the decisive moment in the 91st minute.
Stealing in at the back post behind the unsuspecting Cameroonian defence, the veteran defender met the ball firmly from a corner to slot home a poacher’s finish.
The victory was hard-fought but richly deserved for a side that showed remarkable discipline and resilience against a star-studded Cameroon outfit led by Bryan Mbeumo, Carlos Baleba and Andre Onana.
The result means DR Congo are now one win away from securing Africa’s lone spot in next year’s intercontinental playoffs, and a potential return to the World Cup stage for the first time since 1974.
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Super Eagles power past Gabon in extra-time thriller
Earlier in the evening, Nigeria booked their place in the playoff final with a thrilling 4-1 win over Gabon after extra time, setting up what promises to be an enthralling showdown with DR Congo.
The match had all the hallmarks of a classic knockout tie. Both teams probed cautiously for openings until Akor Adams finally broke the deadlock in the 76th minute with a fine finish.
But just when Nigeria thought they had done enough, Mario Lemina levelled for Gabon in the 89th minute after his deflected shot wrong-footed goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
That late twist only served to ignite the Super Eagles. In extra time, Victor Osimhen rose to the occasion with a dazzling display of strength and precision; netting twice to put the game beyond reach. Chidera Ejuke added a late effort to seal Nigeria’s emphatic passage to the final.
It was a statement performance from a rejuvenated Nigerian side that combined flair with fighting spirit, a mix that will be crucial when they face DR Congo on Sunday in Rabat.
Remarkably, it will be the first-ever competitive meeting between Nigeria and DR Congo. In six previous friendlies, the Congolese hold the edge with three wins, two defeats and one draw, a record that will give them quiet confidence heading into the clash.