The battle for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies as Nigeria and DR Congo collide in the decisive final of the African playoff. With only one ticket available through this knockout path, the stakes could not be higher. Both teams enter the match carrying hope, momentum, and the belief that this is their moment to keep their World Cup dream alive.

Match Date: Nigeria vs DR Congo – African Playoff Final

Nigeria will face the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday, 16 November 2025, at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. The match is set to start at 7:00 PM GMT, offering African football fans a dramatic evening filled with intensity and national pride.

Both sides reached this final after finishing as the best runners-up across the nine African qualifying groups—an achievement that granted them a second chance at redemption. In the semifinal, Nigeria showcased remarkable resilience. Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen delivered a standout performance, scoring twice in extra time to guide his team to a convincing 4–1 victory over Gabon.

DR Congo, meanwhile, battled fiercely in their own semifinal. A late strike from defender Chancel Mbemba secured a crucial 1–0 win against Cameroon, sending the Leopards to the final with confidence and determination.

Expected Lineups for Nigeria vs DR Congo

While the official lineups will be confirmed shortly before kickoff, early expectations suggest that both teams will rely heavily on their star players and tactical structure.

These projected selections underline Nigeria’s explosive attacking options and DR Congo’s balanced, experienced lineup.

Broadcasting Channels: How to Watch Nigeria vs DR Congo

What Comes After the African Playoff?

The winner of the Nigeria vs DR Congo showdown will advance to the highly competitive intercontinental playoff, scheduled for March 2026. This decisive stage brings together six teams from different confederations, each fighting for one of the remaining spots in the expanded 48-team World Cup. Alongside the African representative, the playoff includes the Asian winner between Iraq and the UAE, South America’s Bolivia, Oceania’s New Caledonia, and two teams from the CONCACAF region.

Securing victory in this stage would mean joining the global football elite at the 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. However, defeat in this African playoff final means the journey ends here, with the losing side missing out on this historic edition of the tournament.

The clash between Nigeria and DR Congo promises high drama, fierce competition, and the emotional weight that only World Cup qualification can deliver. Both sides enter the match buoyed by strong semifinal performances and driven by the dream of representing Africa on football’s biggest stage. Whether it’s Nigeria’s powerful attack or DR Congo’s disciplined, determined approach that prevails, fans can expect an unforgettable night as Africa’s road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup reaches its climax.