Nigeria’s World Cup qualifier in opposition to DR Congo resulted in heartbreak because the Leopards edged a tense shootout 4-3 after a 1-1 draw throughout 120 minutes.
Frank Onyeka gave Nigeria the proper begin after simply three minutes, pouncing contained in the field to fireside his facet forward.
However Congo DR grew into the competition and levelled after 32 minutes when Meschack Elia completed nicely from the left-hand facet.
The second half introduced possibilities however little composure, and each managers turned to their benches in the hunt for management.
Further time adopted the same sample: heavy legs, cautious buildup and few clear openings.
The shootout was chaotic from the outset. Calvin Bassey blazed Nigeria’s first effort over, just for Samuel Moutoussamy to see his try saved.
Moses Simon then didn’t convert, earlier than Noah Sadiki struck excessive into the online to present Congo the benefit. Adams responded for Nigeria, and Axel Tuanzebe’s miss levelled the competition once more.
Bruno Onyemaechi and Fiston Mayele each transformed underneath stress, as did Chidera Ejuke and Balikwisha within the subsequent spherical.
With the rating at 3-3, Semi Ajayi stepped up however noticed his shot pushed apart. That left captain Chancel Mbemba with the decisive kick, and he calmly rolled his penalty down the center to ship Congo via.