The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed five key rules that will govern Sunday’s crucial FIFA World Cup playoff final between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) in Morocco.
The winner advances to the intercontinental playoffs in March for a final chance at securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
The announcement comes as both teams arrive at the final, with Nigeria having recently beaten Gabon 4-1 after extra time, powered by a brace from Victor Osimhen and goals from Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke.
DR Congo secured their final ticket thanks to a 91st-minute strike from Chancel Mbemba against Cameroon.
The five critical rules for the high-stakes final are:
- Extra Time Guaranteed: If the match ends in a draw after the 90 minutes of regulation time, an additional 30 minutes of play will be enforced before resorting to penalties.
- Penalty Shootout: Only if the score remains level after extra time will the match be decided by a penalty shootout.
- Five Substitutions: Each team will be permitted to make five substitutions during regular time.
- Sixth Substitution Available: Coaches will be allowed an extra, sixth substitution if the match proceeds into the 30-minute extra time period, offering a chance for fresh legs.
- VAR for All Decisive Moments: The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will be active throughout the final to review critical incidents such as goals, penalties, offsides, and potential red-card offences.
The victor of the Nigeria vs DR Congo final will earn a place in the six-team intercontinental playoff round hosted in Mexico next March.
DR Congo’s only previous World Cup appearance was in 1974, under the name Zaire.
Share Your Views