The loss means Nigeria will miss back-to-back World Cups, having also failed to qualify for Qatar 2022. It is the first time the country has missed two consecutive tournaments since making its World Cup debut in 1994. But DR Congo struck back in the 32nd minute through Mechak Elia, who finished off a swift counterattack after Alex Iwobi was dispossessed in midfield. DR Congo began to dominate midfield exchanges, repeatedly advancing in waves that unsettled the Eagles. In defence, Bassey and Benjamin Fredrick delivered determined performances, repeatedly blocking Congolese advances and keeping the match level through extra time.