Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the next stage of the World Cup playoffs collapsed in Rabat after a tense night that began with early promise but slowly slipped away, Footynaija.com reports.
The Super Eagles had burst into life inside three minutes when Frank Onyeka’s effort, helped by a heavy deflection, flew past Lionel Mpasi-Nzau. From then on, the Leopards settled into the contest while Nigeria struggled to regain momentum.
Here are the player ratings from the match that showed effort, but also revealed a lack of composure.
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Goalkeeper
Stanley Nwabali: 6/10
The Chippa United goalkeeper made an important late save from Chancel Mbemba’s header, a stop that ensured the match survived until the shootout.
He almost handed Congo a gift earlier after misjudging a return ball from Benjamin Fredrick, but he recovered quickly. In the penalties, he read a couple of efforts well, yet the final outcome went against him.
Defenders
Zaidu Sanusi: 5/10
The Porto left-back delivered the cross that Congo failed to clear before Onyeka scored the opener. He pushed up the flank early but later found it harder to influence the game as Nigeria lost control.
Semi Ajayi: 6/10
The Hull City defender stayed composed for long spells and made several steady interventions. He stepped up for a penalty but could not convert his kick during the shootout.
Calvin Bassey: 6/10
He stayed alert in defensive situations and tried to organise the back line. His penalty miss placed immediate pressure on the team during the shootout.
Benjamin Fredrick: 6/10
The 20-year-old faced constant pressure but handled himself with maturity. He showed composure in several duels and stayed strong even when Congo controlled possession.
His pass eventually led to a moment where Nwabali almost made a costly error, but he remained one of Nigeria’s brightest performers until the end.
Midfielders and Forwards
Wilfred Ndidi: 4/10
He found it difficult to impose himself and struggled to control of the midfield. Congo’s pressure reduced his influence and the team could not build through him.
Frank Onyeka: 7/10
He scored early with the deflected strike that lifted the team. He worked hard in midfield but began to fade once Congo settled into their shape and pushed higher after the equaliser.
Alex Iwobi: 4/10
He troubled the Congo keeper early and linked attacks well in the opening phase. His misplaced pass, however, led directly to the equaliser. He later faded and was replaced by Tolu Arokodare.
Samuel Chukwueze: 5/10
He started brightly and carried the ball with confidence in the opening minutes. Over time his influence dropped and he struggled to find space in the second half before being taken off.
Victor Osimhen: 5.5/10
He pressed Congo’s defence aggressively and threatened in the first half. His night was cut short after he picked up discomfort around the break, and Nigeria missed his presence when he came off.
Ademola Lookman: 4/10
He struggled to affect the contest and looked short of sharpness. His impact remained limited and he was replaced after a subdued performance.
The Substitutes
Akor Adams: 6/10
He entered for Osimhen and worked to stretch Congo’s defence. He converted his penalty with calmness during the shootout.
Chidera Ejuke: 5.5/10
He tried to inject urgency but found it difficult to change the flow of the game. He pushed forward whenever possible but Congo closed the spaces well.
Moses Simon: 3/10
He struggled to create anything meaningful and could not get past his marker. His penalty in the shootout was saved.
Tolu Arokodare: 3/10
He replaced Iwobi but found it hard to make any impact. He was later taken off again, a decision that confused many watching.
Bruno Onyemaechi: 6.5/10
He defended with commitment and stayed alert on the flank. He scored his penalty and offered some stability when introduced.
Chidozie Awaziem: Not available
He entered late in extra time and did not have enough minutes to be judged fairly.
