- Nigeria vs DR Congo showdown decides who advances to the World Cup playoff stage.
- Super Eagles miss Wilfred Ndidi, while Frank Onyeka is likely to step in.
- DR Congo boast a stronger head-to-head record but Nigeria hold the attacking edge.
- Probable lineups highlight Osimhen and Bakambu as the main threats.
The Nigeria vs DR Congo encounter in Rabat promises a high-stakes showdown as both teams eye a ticket to the 2026 World Cup inter-confederation playoff. Nigeria entered the match after a thrilling 4–1 extra-time win over Gabon, a result that revived their campaign. On the other hand, DR Congo secured their spot thanks to a stoppage-time strike from Chancel Mbemba in their narrow 1–0 win against Cameroon.
This meeting will be the seventh between the two sides. Historically, DR Congo holds a slight edge with three wins, while Nigeria have won twice, and one match ended in a draw. Their last contest, a friendly in 2018, ended 1–1.
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The Super Eagles will be without midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, who is suspended after accumulating too many yellow cards. Coach Finidi George may hand Frank Onyeka the role in midfield as he tries to maintain the team’s shape. Up front, Victor Osimhen, who has already netted 31 goals for Nigeria, will be pushing to close in further on Rashidi Yekini’s long-standing record of 37.
DR Congo, meanwhile, approach the clash with a full squad and no suspension worries. West Ham defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka is expected to start on the right, while Cédric Bakambu leads the attack in a system built around pace and counter-pressing.
Probable Lineups
Nigeria: Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Frederick, Bassey, Sanusi; Chukwueze, Onyeka, Iwobi, Ejuke; Osimhen, Adams
DR Congo: Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Kayemba; Moutoussamy, Pickel, Sadiki; Mbuku, Bakambu, Bongonda
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DR Congo showed strong defensive discipline against Cameroon, but they will face a tougher test against a Nigerian side packed with attacking quality. The Leopards struggled to create clear chances in their last outing and may not get as much room to operate against the Super Eagles.
With a World Cup playoff ticket on the line, both teams are expected to go all out for victory, but Nigeria’s firepower could prove decisive.
