DR Congo players set sights on Super Eagles after victory over Cameroon

The Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo have declared themselves ready for the ultimate challenge against Nigeria’s Super Eagles after edging past Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions 1-0 in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Africa Playoff Tournament.

Chancel Mbemba, marking his 100th international cap, scored the decisive goal that sealed Congo’s place in Sunday’s final.

The Congolese side showed resilience and determination against Cameroon, creating the better chances throughout the match.

Théo Bongonda came close to giving the Leopards an early lead in the first half, while goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi maintained his composure to secure a third consecutive clean sheet.

Cameroon pressed but failed to truly trouble the Congolese defence, leaving the Leopards to celebrate a hard-earned victory.

Players expressed their determination on social media after the match.

Samuel Moutoussamy wrote, ‘A battle won, but the fight is not over. The mission continues.’ Nathanaël Mbuku added, ‘There is still hope,’ while Joris Kayembe described the win as ‘one step further.’

West Ham full back, Aaron Wan-Bissaka echoed the sentiment, stating, ‘The journey continues.’

The Leopards will once again enter the contest as underdogs, just as they did against Cameroon, a position that gives them the element of surprise.

Historically, DR Congo has never beaten Nigeria in an official match, with three encounters at the Africa Cup of Nations in 1976, 1992 and 1994 all ending in Nigeria’s favour. Their only victory came in a friendly match in 2015 under coach Florent Ibenge.