The dreams of millions of Nigerians were shattered on Sunday night as the Super Eagles failed to qualify for next year’s FIFA World Cup after losing 6-5 on penalties to DR Congo.
Nigeria took the lead early in the first half when a Congolese defender mistakenly turned the ball into his own net. However, the visitors fought back strongly and were rewarded just before halftime, with Ella firing home the equaliser that silenced the home crowd.
Both sides battled fiercely in the second half and extra time, creating several chances but failing to find a breakthrough, forcing the game into a tense penalty shootout.
The pressure proved too much for the Nigerian side as Moses Simon and Calvin Bassey missed their spot kicks, handing DR Congo a dramatic 6-5 victory.
The result means that Nigeria, two-time African champions, will not feature at the World Cup next year a major blow for the nation’s football supporters and the team’s ambitions.
DR Congo will now take their place among the teams heading to the global showpiece.
