2026 World Cup: Fifa Rejects Nff Petition Against Dr Congo
The world football governing body, FIFA, has rejected a petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation
challenging the eligibility of players used by the Democratic Republic of Congo national football team
during their 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash with Nigeria.
The decision was confirmed on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, following months of review by FIFA’s
Disciplinary Committee after Nigeria lodged a formal protest over the match played in Rabat, Morocco,
in November 2025.
Nigeria had lost the encounter 4–3 on penalties after a 1–1 draw in regulation and extra time,
prompting the NFF to question the legitimacy of some Congolese players, citing alleged irregularities in
the issuance of passports used to establish eligibility.
After reviewing the complaint, FIFA dismissed the petition and upheld DR Congo’s progression in the
qualification process, effectively ending Nigeria’s challenge at that stage.
Reacting to the decision, NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi said the federation was dissatisfied
with the ruling and had immediately initiated an appeal process to challenge FIFA’s verdict.
Meanwhile, DR Congo remains on course in the qualification pathway and is set to compete in the inter-
confederation playoffs, where final spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by the
United States, Canada, and Mexico, will be decided.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
