FIFA dismisses Nigeria’s petition Against DR Congo, World Cup hopes end, By YAHAYA SALEH MUHAMMAD
World football governing body, FIFA, has rejected Nigeria’s petition challenging the eligibility of players fielded by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) in their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff.
The ruling brings an official end to the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualification hopes, confirming DR Congo’s progression from the playoff encounter.
Nigeria had filed a formal complaint after losing 1–1 to DR Congo before falling 4–3 on penalties in the CAF playoff final played in Rabat, Morocco, on November 16, 2025. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) alleged that some DR Congo players were not eligible under FIFA rules and requested the match result be overturned.
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However, after reviewing the submissions from both parties, FIFA ruled that all DR Congo players involved were duly registered and met eligibility requirements, adding that no violation of FIFA or CAF regulations occurred.
With the decision, the match result stands, and DR Congo will now proceed to the intercontinental playoffs, keeping their 2026 World Cup dream alive.
The verdict has been met with disappointment among Nigerian football fans, as the Super Eagles will now miss the World Cup for the second consecutive edition.
Meanwhile, DR Congo will turn attention to preparations for the intercontinental playoff series scheduled for March 2026, where they will battle teams from other confederations for a place at the expanded 48-team World Cup to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
More details to follow as reactions continue to trail FIFA’s decision.
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