DR Congo defender Noah Sadiki has revealed the tactical plan that guided his team to a dramatic penalty shootout win over Nigeria in the Africa Playoff final for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to the 20-year-old Sunderland star, the strategy was simple: neutralise Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen.
“We know Osimhen is a big player, also there are other top players in the Nigerian team, but we knew if we can keep Osimhen quiet we have a chance of winning the game,” Sadiki told Brila Sports. His comments were captured by Completesports.
The match, held at Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, ended 1-1 after 120 minutes, forcing a tense penalty shootout which DR Congo won 4-3. Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali later expressed regret over his team’s performance.
Nigeria had an early lead when Zaidu Sanusi’s cross in the third minute found Frank Onyeka, whose shot deflected into the net. However, Meshak Elia equalised for DR Congo in the 32nd minute after capitalising on a midfield lapse.
Osimhen’s injury at halftime proved pivotal. With Nigeria’s attacking rhythm disrupted, the Super Eagles struggled to connect midfield to attack, while DR Congo dictated the pace of the game.
Despite valiant efforts from Tolu Arokodare and others, Nigeria failed to reclaim control. During the shootout, missed penalties from Calvin Bassey and Moses Simon allowed DR Congo to seize victory.
Sadiki emphasised that the team’s focus on Osimhen was decisive: “Once Osimhen was out, we felt we could control the game and exploit spaces. It worked exactly as we planned.”
