DR Congo qualified for the play off final with a tense 1–0 victory over Cameroon, courtesy of a stoppage-time goal from captain Chancel Mbemba.
The defender arrived unmarked at the back post to steer in Brian Cipenga’s corner, sealing a dramatic win in a match played under persistent rain.
The result denied Cameroon, Africa’s most frequent World Cup finalists with eight appearances, any advantage despite their pedigree. Early opportunities fell for DR Congo through Noah Sadiki and Theo Bongonda, while Cameroon also came close when Karl Etta Eyong narrowly missed connecting with Bryan Mbeumo’s dangerous free kick.
Goalkeeper André Onana, who had been doubtful before kickoff due to injury, produced a key save to deny Bongonda on the hour mark. Minutes later, Mbeumo broke through for Cameroon but pushed his shot wide from close range.
As the match wore on, Congo looked the stronger side, though Cameroon carved out two late half-chances for Etta Eyong before Mbemba’s decisive intervention.
Nigeria and DR Congo will now meet in Sunday’s playoff final in Rabat. The winner will progress to the inter-confederation playoffs in March, where six teams will compete for two spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.