DR Congo defender Noah Sadiki has admitted that the injury to Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen gave his team an advantage during Sunday’s World Cup qualifying playoff final in Rabat, Morocco.

Osimhen was substituted at half-time for Akor Adams before DR Congo went on to defeat the Super Eagles 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes. Frank Onyeka opened the scoring for Nigeria, while Mechak Elia levelled for the Congolese side.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Sadiki, who plays for English Premier League side Sunderland, said Osimhen’s absence eased some of the pressure on his team.

“It helps [Osimhen’s injury]. We know that Osimhen is a big player. They have other qualities in front,” he said. “We knew he was their star player, and if he was out, it would be a bit easier, and we practiced penalties.”

DR Congo’s victory secured their place as Africa’s representative in the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March 2026, where six teams will compete for the final two spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.