AfriPulse
Democratic Republic of Congo defender Noah Sadiki says his side’s dramatic victory over Nigeria in Rabat was built on one key plan: silence Victor Osimhen, and the Super Eagles become a very different team, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 20-year-old Sunderland man offered a candid assessment after DR Congo edged a tense Africa Playoff final 4-3 on penalties to reach the Intercontinental playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The match had finished 1-1 after 120 minutes, with Nigeria delivering a performance that goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has apologised for.
Super Eagles Alex Iwobi vs DR Congo. Photo Credit: CAF Comms
DR Congo midfield enforcer Sadiki said the squad entered the game with one tactical truth in mind.
“We know Osimhen is a big player also there are other top players in the Nigerian team but we knew if we can keep Osimhen quiet we have a chance of winning the game,” Sadiki told Brila as per Completesports.
It was a plan made easier when the Galatasaray forward failed to return for the second half after suffering an injury.
Super Eagles stars Vic Osimhen, Chidera Ejuke and Bright Osayi-Samuel. Photo Courtesy NFF Copyright: xKarpushevxIMAGO
Nigeria’s attacking rhythm evaporated almost instantly. A team that had created danger in the early stages gradually retreated, struggled to link midfield to attack, and spent long spells pinned back as the Congolese controlled the tempo.
Osimhen’s injury clearly shaped the night’s outcome and also extended his personal frustration on the global stage. Having missed the 2022 World Cup, he will now have to wait until 2030, when he will be 31, for another chance.
Photo by IMAGO
For DR Congo, meanwhile, the victory brings them within touching distance of their first World Cup appearance since 1974.
Get Our Sports News First – Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!
How Victor Osimhen’s Super Eagles stumbled against DR Congo’s Leopards in Rabat
Nigeria had the perfect start on Sunday night inside the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium. Zaidu Sanusi curled in a third-minute cross, which Frank Onyeka struck before it deflected beyond the Congolese goalkeeper.
Photo Credit: CAF Comms
With Wilfred Ndidi driving midfield and Osimhen darting down the channels, the Eagles initially looked the sharper side.
But a narrow escape from a Congolese free-kick warned of growing danger, before the equaliser arrived in the 32nd minute. Meshak Elia beat Ndidi to a loose ball and steered calmly past Stanley Nwabali after Nigeria lost possession in midfield.
Osimhen’s injury at the break altered the complexion entirely. The Eagles fought, but their chances dried up. Nwabali made several vital saves, one from a glancing touch in the 53rd minute, another from a point-blank header deep into extra time, yet Nigeria failed to reassert control.
Photo Credit: CAF Comms
Tolu Arokodare came closest with a rising header from a Bruno Onyemaechi cross, but it flew millimetres too high
Source: SoccerNet | Read the Full Story…
