Nigeria and DR Congo Locked at 1-1 After Lively First Half

Nigeria and DR Congo went into the break level at 1-1 in their high-stakes World Cup play-off clash in Rabat. The Super Eagles made a dream start when Frank Onyeka’s third-minute effort deflected off Axel Tuanzebe and slipped past goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi to give Nigeria the lead.

Nigeria looked dangerous on the counter, with Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman troubling the Congolese defence, but missed a clear chance to double the advantage midway through the half. That wastefulness proved costly as DR Congo hit back in the 32nd minute. Cedric Bakambu broke forward down the right and delivered a low cross that Wilfred Ndidi inadvertently nudged into the path of Meschak Elia, who finished clinically to equalise.

The half closed with both sides pushing but unable to find a second goal. With a ticket to the intercontinental play-offs at stake, the second half promises intense action.