Onyeka Confident as Nigeria Targets World Cup Spot Against DR Congo

November, 16 2025 - Brentford’s energetic midfielder Frank Onyeka has promised that Nigeria will “leave everything on the pitch” when the Super Eagles face DR Congo in Sunday’s decisive CAF World Cup playoff final. The much-anticipated showdown will determine who secures Africa’s last ticket to the inter-confederation playoffs, a crucial step toward the 2026 World Cup jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Nigeria, a team with a deep World Cup pedigree, marched into the final after thrashing Gabon 4-1 in the semi-final clash played at Rabat’s Moulay Hassan Stadium. Striker Victor Osimhen was the hero of the night, scoring twice in extra time to seal the victory and renew hope among Nigerian fans worldwide.

Super Eagles Eye Redemption

Speaking ahead of the high-stakes encounter, Onyeka expressed the team’s determination to make their country proud. “The players are ready; we're focused and hungry to win,” he said. “This game means a lot to Nigerians, and we’ll give our all. It’s been a tough route, but our goal remains clear: to be Africa’s best and return to the World Cup stage.”

The Super Eagles, three-time African champions, have had to deal with a difficult qualification journey after an inconsistent start to the campaign. However, under new coach Eric Chelle, the team seems rejuvenated and united in purpose.

Strong Opponents in DR Congo

Their opponents, DR Congo’s Leopards, are equally motivated after a dramatic win over heavyweights Cameroon. Defender Chancel Mbemba’s last-minute goal sealed their place in the final and revived hopes of ending a 51-year absence from the World Cup.

Onyeka acknowledged the Congolese threat but insisted that the Nigerian squad remains focused. “DR Congo is a quality team, but we must concentrate on our own game plan. There are no easy matches in African football, and we must bring our best performance to progress.”

Historically, the two sides have met six times, with DR Congo holding a slight edge at three wins to Nigeria’s two, and one game ending in a draw. Their last meeting, a friendly in 2018, ended in a stalemate.