DR Congo Stuns Cameroon with Last-Minute Winner to Set Up World Cup Qualifying Final Against Nigeria
Analysis: The Leopards’ dramatic victory reshapes the African World Cup qualifying landscape and sets up a high-stakes West-Central African showdown
Late Drama Seals Historic Victory
LIBREVILLE, November 13, 2025 (AGP) – After defeating Cameroon (1-0) in the other semi-final playoff match, the Democratic Republic of Congo will face Nigeria in the final this Sunday, the Gabonese Press Agency has learned.
The Democratic Republic of Congo delivered a stunning blow to Cameroon’s World Cup aspirations with a dramatic 91st-minute winner that sends the Leopards through to a crucial qualifying final against Nigeria. This last-gasp victory represents one of the most significant results in recent Congolese football history and marks a potential turning point in the regional football hierarchy.
Tactical Battle Ends in Heartbreak for Cameroon
The Leopards overcame Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions in the dying moments of the match (90+1′).
The match had appeared destined for extra time until Congo’s decisive breakthrough in added time. The timing of the goal underscores the psychological resilience of the Congolese squad, who maintained offensive pressure despite the match’s tense nature. For Cameroon, the defeat represents a devastating collapse in the final moments of a crucial qualifier, raising questions about the team’s ability to close out high-pressure matches.
Regional Rivalry Takes Center Stage
They will face Nigeria in the final, who defeated Gabon (4-1) earlier in the evening.
This sets up a compelling West-Central African derby with massive implications for 2026 World Cup qualification. Nigeria’s commanding 4-1 victory over Gabon demonstrates their offensive firepower, creating an intriguing tactical contrast with Congo’s gritty, defensively disciplined performance. The final promises to pit Nigeria’s attacking prowess against Congo’s demonstrated resilience under pressure.
Broader Implications for African Football
The result signals a potential shift in the African football landscape. Cameroon, traditionally one of the continent’s powerhouses, faces early elimination while DR Congo continues its resurgence on the international stage. For Congolese football, this victory represents an opportunity to build momentum toward what would be only their second World Cup appearance since 1974.
The upcoming final carries enormous stakes beyond regional bragging rights, with the winner taking a significant step toward qualification for the expanded 2026 World Cup. The match also serves as a barometer for the development programs and domestic league structures in both nations.
ATM/FE/WM/AGP
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This analysis is based on original reporting from the Gabonese Press Agency. For complete match details and original coverage, read the full source article.