Nigeria vs DR Congo CAF Play-Off 2025: Kickoff Time, Live Stream, Team News & Head-to-Head Stats
The race for a World Cup berth intensifies on Sunday as Nigeria face the Democratic Republic of Congo in the CAF World Cup qualifying play-off final.
The Super Eagles advanced after a dramatic 4-1 extra-time victory over Gabon in Rabat, Morocco. Despite a tense build-up marked by a training boycott over pay disputes, Nigeria produced a spirited performance. Akor Adams opened the scoring in the 78th minute, but Mario Lemina equalised late on for Gabon to force extra time. Chidera Ejuke restored Nigeria’s lead before Victor Osimhen struck twice to seal the win.
DR Congo also left it late in their semi-final, with Chancel Mbemba scoring a stoppage-time winner against Cameroon. The Leopards are aiming to reach only their second-ever World Cup, having last featured in 1974.
Sunday’s winner will progress to the inter-confederation play-offs in Mexico next year, where the final two World Cup slots will be determined.
Date, Kick-off Time and Venue
Match: Nigeria vs DR Congo
Date: Sunday, November 16, 2025
Kick-off: 7pm GMT
Venue: Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah, Rabat, Morocco
Where to Watch Nigeria vs DR Congo
CAF TV
Super Sports
Live Stream: Available on FIFA+, FIFA’s official streaming platform.
Nigeria Team News
Nigeria will be without Wilfred Ndidi, who is suspended after accumulating two yellow cards.
Frank Onyeka is expected to step in, though the Brentford midfielder is also one booking away from suspension.
Victor Osimhen is similarly on the brink of suspension but is cleared to play. His partnership with Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams remains Nigeria’s key attacking weapon.
DR Congo Team News
DR Congo have no injury concerns or suspensions.
Chancel Mbemba, who was booked against Cameroon, will need to avoid another caution to remain eligible for the play-offs.
Prediction
DR Congo boast a disciplined defensive setup, as shown in their win over Cameroon.
However, Nigeria’s attacking depth — led by Osimhen, Lookman, and Adams — may prove overwhelming.
Prediction: Nigeria 3-1 DR Congo
Head-to-Head (H2H)
This is the first competitive meeting between the two nations since their 1-1 friendly draw in 2018.
Nigeria wins: 2
DR Congo wins: 3
Draws: 1