Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, says Nigeria gave everything they had in the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-off against DR Congo, despite falling short of qualification for the second consecutive tournament.
Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the global showpiece in the United States, Canada, and Mexico were ended on Sunday after DR Congo clinched Africa’s playoff ticket with a 4-3 victory on penalties at the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
The Super Eagles had taken an early advantage through Frank Onyeka, but Meshak Elia drew level for the Congolese before halftime. The tightly contested encounter dragged into extra time, where both sides failed to find a breakthrough, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.
Nigeria faltered from the spot, allowing DR Congo to secure progression to next year’s FIFA intercontinental playoff series.
The defeat marks Nigeria’s second successive failure to reach the World Cup—having missed Qatar 2022—and the pressure has intensified on Chelle’s tenure. However, the coach refused to assess his own future when asked directly about his job status.
“I think you have to ask the NFF and the commission,” Chelle responded when questioned after the match.
“I did well. We worked and I try to give my best. We gave our best; the players and the officials,” he added.
Nigeria will now turn their attention to preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as the team seeks to rebuild after another painful World Cup setback.
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