The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face DR Congo in a crucial final of the African play-offs for the FIFA World Cup 2026™. The match, a winner-takes-all encounter, will take place at the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat on Sunday, November 16, 2025. Kick-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. local time (7 p.m. GMT).
The stakes are incredibly high as the victor will advance to the intercontinental play-offs in March 2026, keeping their hopes of participating in the World Cup alive. For the losing team, the dream of reaching the global finals will be over. The intercontinental play-offs, a mini-tournament, will be held in Guadalajara and Monterrey, Mexico, from March 23-31, 2026, featuring six nations vying for just two World Cup spots.
Nigeria arrives in Rabat with confidence soaring after a spectacular 4-1 extra-time victory over Gabon in the semi-finals. In that match, Akor Adams opened the scoring in the 78th minute, but Gabon equalized late, forcing extra time. Chidera Ejuke then put Nigeria ahead, followed by a brace from star striker Victor Osimhen. DR Congo, on the other hand, secured their place in the final with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Cameroon, sealed by a stoppage-time goal from captain Chancel Mbemba.
This final is poised to be a tactical and intense battle. Nigeria is expected to rely on their speed and direct attacking style, spearheaded by Victor Osimhen. DR Congo will likely focus on a solid defensive structure and look to exploit quick counter-attacks, led by Cédric Bakambu, with Mbemba organizing the defense. A key aspect of DR Congo's defense is the inclusion of Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Nigeria's midfield has received a boost with Wilfred Ndidi available after clarification that accumulated cautions from the group phase do not carry into the play-offs. Semi Ajayi also returns from a one-game ban, strengthening the center-back options alongside Benjamin Fredrick and Calvin Bassey. For DR Congo, coach Sébastien Desabre has no fresh injuries or suspensions and may retain the same starting XI that beat Cameroon.
The match is taking place on neutral soil in Morocco, eliminating any home advantage and intensifying the tactical considerations. Nigeria is aiming for its seventh World Cup appearance, while DR Congo seeks to edge closer to its first appearance since 1974 when they were known as Zaire.
Several key battles are expected to determine the outcome of the match: * Osimhen vs. Mbemba/Tuanzebe: Osimhen's explosive runs against a disciplined and aerially strong defensive pairing. * Nigeria's left channel vs. Wan-Bissaka: Wan-Bissaka's defensive skills will be tested by Osimhen's drifting and Zaidu Sanusi's overlapping runs. * Transitions: Nigeria's attack thrives on quick passes from Alex Iwobi, while DR Congo is dangerous when Theo Bongonda and Bakambu break into space.
With so much at stake, this match promises to be a closely fought encounter. The winner will not only keep their World Cup dreams alive but also advance to the next stage of qualification, while the loser will face elimination.
