Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and his Democratic Republic of Congo counterpart, Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, have delivered contrasting reactions following Sunday night’s dramatic World Cup playoff final in Rabat, where the Leopards edged the Super Eagles 4-3 on penalties to move one step closer to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nigeria, who entered the contest as favourites, saw their qualification hopes dashed for the second straight tournament despite a spirited display in a tense, bruising encounter that finished 1-1 after extra time.
President Tinubu, reacting through a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, urged the nation to accept the disappointment ‘constructively’ and refocus its energy on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
“Notwithstanding the unfortunate loss, we must commend the players for their efforts and continue to support them,” he said.
“We must now plug all the loopholes. Our football administrators, players, and indeed all stakeholders must go back to the drawing board.
“Now is the time to focus all efforts on the Cup of Nations. Our Super Eagles must recover the lost glory.”
The President emphasised that lessons from this failed qualification bid must shape Nigeria’s preparations for the next AFCON, scheduled for December.
Get Our Sports News First – Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!
Tshisekedi salutes ‘valiant Leopards’
In Kinshasa, President Félix Tshisekedi has delivered a congratulatory message to the Leopards, calling their victory ‘historic’ and urging the nation to rally behind the team ahead of the intercontinental playoffs.
The President expressed ‘pride and admiration’ for a performance he said showed ‘exceptional determination and resilience,’ while also extending gratitude to Congolese supporters whose ‘unwavering support’ propelled the team to victory.
Tshisekedi further urged Congolese citizens to turn out en masse on Monday at N’djili International Airport to receive the team before a celebratory carnival to the Martyrs Stadium, where he will personally welcome the players.
He described the prospect of reaching the 2026 World Cup as ‘a message of hope for Congolese youth,’ marking what would be only the DRC’s second-ever appearance at football’s biggest showpiece.
Nigeria vs DR Congo: A night of shifting momentum in Rabat
At the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium, Nigeria struck early; Frank Onyeka’s third-minute effort, deflected into the net after Zaidu Sanusi’s cross. Wilfred Ndidi and Victor Osimhen both threatened to double the advantage before DR Congo hit back.
In the 32nd minute, Meshak Elia punished a midfield turnover, beating Ndidi to the ball and slotting past Stanley Nwabali to level the tie.
Osimhen’s injury-forced substitution at half-time stalled Nigeria’s attacking fluency, though Nwabali kept the Eagles in the contest with sharp saves, including a crucial stop in extra time.
Tolu Arokodare came close with a looping header in extra time, but neither side could find a breakthrough.
The shootout was a tense, agonising affair. Jerome Akor, Bruno Onyemaechi and Chidera Ejuke scored, but Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon missed before Semi Ajayi’s decisive kick was saved. DR Congo converted their next penalty to book a place in the Intercontinental Playoff in Mexico.
The result ended Nigeria’s dream of returning to the World Cup and extended a turbulent period for the three-time African champions.