DR Congo midfielder Noah Sadiki has stated that the Congolese team knew they had a great chance of winning against Nigeria if only they could handle the threat posed by Victor Osimhen up front.

The Leopards progressed to the Intercontinental playoffs after edging Nigeria 4-3 in the penalty shootout, after 90 minutes of regulation time plus an additional 30 minutes of extra time ended in a 1-1 stalemate.

Osimhen, who has been the standout performer for Nigeria in their last two World Cup qualifier matches against Benin Republic and Gabon, could not replicate that form against the DRC.

The Galatasaray striker was fit to play for just the first half as he was substituted after picking up an injury in the first 45 minutes.

Eric Chelle's side lost their threat up front following Osimhen's substitution for the remainder of the game.

Speaking after the victory, Sunderland midfielder Sadiki said the Leopards knew silencing Osimhen was going to improve their chances of beating Nigeria.

“We know Osimhen is a big player, also there are other top players in the Nigerian team, but we knew if we could keep Osimhen quiet we had a chance of winning the game.”

DR Congo will be hoping to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1974 when they represent Africa at the Intercontinental Playoffs in March 2026.

WDN