Nigeria vs DR Congo: Preview, Team News, Head-to-Head, Prediction, Kick-off Time, TV and Live Stream
Match Overview
Nigeria and DR Congo clash in a winner-takes-all CAF World Cup play-off final on Sunday in Rabat. The stakes could not be higher: the victors will advance to March’s FIFA Inter-Continental Play-Off, keeping their FIFA World Cup 2026 dream alive.
Kick-off is set for 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT / 8:00pm Nigeria time) at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Morocco.
Eric Sékou Chelle’s Super Eagles arrive with momentum after a thrilling 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon. Nigeria were pegged back late in normal time but responded emphatically: Chidera Ejuke struck early in extra time before Victor Osimhen sealed the win with a ruthless brace, adding to Akor Adams’ opener. The three-time African champions are now just 90 minutes away from the inter-continental shootout that offers Africa’s 10th ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
DR Congo, meanwhile, advanced the hard way. Sébastien Desabre’s men edged Cameroon 1–0, courtesy of captain Chancel Mbemba’s stoppage-time finish from a Cipenga corner. The Leopards displayed discipline, relied on goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi’s secure handling, and punished the Indomitable Lions at the death despite André Onana’s earlier saves.
This final sets up a fascinating clash of styles: Nigeria’s direct pace and penalty-box punch, led by Osimhen and supplied by Wilfred Ndidi’s line-breaking passes, against a DR Congo side built on organisation and set-piece threat. Cedric Bakambu’s experience and Fiston Mayele’s running offer counter-attacking options, while Mbemba’s leadership anchors a back line comfortable under pressure.
With no second chances, the outcome will hinge on transitions, set-plays, and game management in Rabat. The winners progress to the six-team FIFA Inter-Continental Play-Off in March (two spots available for the World Cup), while the losers see their route to 2026 closed.
Date, Kick-off Time & Venue
Date: Sunday, November 16, 2025
Kick-off: 8:00pm Nigeria time (7:00pm GMT)
Venue: Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah, Rabat, Morocco
Where to Watch
TV: DSTV and GOtv
Live Stream: FIFA’s official streaming service, FIFA+
Live Blog: Sportsnow.com.ng will provide live updates throughout the match
Team News
Nigeria
Wilfred Ndidi is suspended after accumulating too many yellow cards.
Victor Osimhen is one booking away from suspension, which could affect his availability in the inter-confederation play-offs if Nigeria advance.
Frank Onyeka is expected to replace Ndidi in midfield, though he too is on a booking and risks suspension if cautioned.
Note: Yellow cards are not wiped until before the World Cup tournament. Any player who receives two yellow cards across different qualifying matches is automatically suspended for the next game.
DR Congo
No injuries or suspensions from their win over Cameroon.
Chancel Mbemba was booked in that match and must tread carefully against Nigeria.
Prediction
Nigeria boast star power and attacking depth, while DR Congo rely on defensive solidity. The Leopards shut out Bryan Mbeumo and Cameroon, but facing Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Akor Adams is a different challenge.
Prediction: Nigeria to win 3–1.
Head-to-Head History
This is the first competitive meeting between Nigeria and DR Congo.
Their last encounter was a 1–1 friendly draw in 2018.
