Congo DR have won the CAF playoffs after defeating Nigeria on penalties in the final. The Leopards advance to the interconfederation playoffs for a chance to qualify for the 2026 Men’s World Cup.

Congo DR reached the CAF playoffs after taking second place in Group B. In the semifinals, they defeated Cameroon in dramatic fashion, as a stoppage time corner was tucked in by Chancel MBEMBA for the only goal of the match. Nigeria needed extra time to surpass Gabon in the other semifinal, with two goals by Victor OSIMHEN leading the Super Eagles to a 4-1 win.

In the final, Frank ONYEKA gave the Super Eagles an early lead, with Mechak ELIA equalising on a counterattack nearly 30 minutes later. With no further goals, Leopards manager Sebastien DESABRE brought on goalkeeper Timothy FAYULU near the end of extra time. The move paid off, as Fayulu made two saves in the penalty shootout. Congo DR won the shootout 4-3 to advance to the interconfederation playoffs, aiming to qualify for the Men’s World Cup for the first time in over 50 years.