FIFA has rejected the Nigeria Football Federation’s petition to disqualify DR Congo national team from the 2026 World Cup intercontinental playoff.
Nigeria’s petition was based on claims that DR Congo fielded ineligible players, but it was dismissed after FIFA confirmed that the players were properly registered and met all eligibility requirements.
NFF Responds to FIFA Decision
NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi addressed Nigerians following the ruling.
“We have received the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee on our petition, but we are not satisfied with the decision, which rejected our petition. I want to assure Nigerians that the NFF has immediately commenced the process of appealing the decision.”
Background to the Dispute
DR Congo defeated Nigeria national team on penalties to secure Africa’s sole slot at the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for Mexico.
Nigeria subsequently attempted to overturn the result off the pitch after losing on the field of play.
The NFF alleged that the Congolese side fielded up to nine ineligible players, claiming the players held dual citizenships, which it argued is illegal under Congolese law.
DR Congo’s Position
The Congolese Football Association dismissed Nigeria’s claims, describing the appeal as “opportunistic and baseless.”
It maintained that eligibility is determined by FIFA regulations rather than domestic laws.
FIFA Clarifies Eligibility Rules
FIFA clarified that player eligibility is determined solely by possession of a valid passport for the country they represent.
Nigeria’s petition also reportedly suffered two major procedural flaws:
- Failure to pay the mandatory protest fee
- Failure to notify FIFA of its intention to appeal within the required two-hour window
What Happens Next
Nigeria has vowed to appeal the ruling, while DR Congo prepares to face either Jamaica national team or New Caledonia national team for a place at the World Cup.
As of the time of reporting, DR Congo had not issued an official statement regarding FIFA’s decision.
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