November 14, (THEWILL) — Chancel Mbemba struck deep into stoppage time to give the Democratic Republic of Congo a 1-0 victory over Cameroon in the World Cup Africa playoffs on Thursday. The captain arrived unmarked at the back post to convert a corner delivered by Brian Cipenga, clinching a vital win in persistent rain.
The Congolese will face Nigeria in the playoff final in Rabat on Sunday. The Super Eagles defeated Gabon 4-1 after extra time earlier on Thursday, with Victor Osimhen netting twice after his side conceded a late equaliser in normal time. The winner of Sunday’s match will advance to the inter-confederation playoffs in March, where six nations will compete for two spots at the 2026 finals in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
Cameroon entered the contest with a record eight previous World Cup finals appearances among African nations, but that history offered little advantage against a resolute Congolese outfit. Early opportunities fell to Noah Sadiki and Theo Bongonda for Congo, whilst Karl Etta Eyong missed a chance to connect with Bryan Mbeumo’s free kick for Cameroon in the opening period.
Goalkeeper Andre Onana, who had been doubtful before kick-off, produced an excellent save to deny Bongonda on the hour mark. Five minutes later, Mbeumo broke through on a probing pass but fired wide from close range. Etta Eyong had two further half-chances in the closing stages, though Congo appeared to be finishing the stronger side.
Mbemba’s dramatic intervention kept his nation’s World Cup qualification hopes alive. The match, played throughout in heavy rain, proved a tense affair with both sides creating opportunities. Congo will take on Nigeria for a place in the inter-confederation playoffs next March.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
