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The Digest:

The Democratic Republic of Congo and Iraq have secured the final two spots in the 2026 World Cup intercontinental playoffs. Their paths, sealed by a tense penalty shootout and a last-gasp extra-time goal, showcased the unflinching pursuit of a place on the world's stage.

Key Points:
  • The Democratic Republic of Congo qualified by defeating Nigeria in a penalty shootout.
  • The match ended 0-0 after 120 minutes of regular and extra time.
  • Congo's Leopards triumphed 4-3 on penalties to claim their playoff berth.
  • Iraq joined them by defeating the United Arab Emirates 2-1 in the second leg.
  • Striker Mohanad Ali scored a decisive penalty in the 17th minute of injury time.
  • The dramatic win secured a 3-2 aggregate victory for Iraq.
  • Both nations now advance to the final intercontinental playoff round.
These climactic victories underscore the thin margins between triumph and heartbreak in football, where a single kick can define a nation's dream and alter its destiny.

Sources: Daily Post Nigeria