Football fans in Nigeria are anxiously awaiting FIFA’s decision on a controversial eligibility dispute involving the Super Eagles and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), following their dramatic African playoff final clash.
Nigeria lost the decisive match 4–3 on penalties, a result that handed DR Congo a spot in the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March, where two teams will fight for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
However, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has challenged the outcome, and demanding that DR Congo be disqualified.
Here are ten things to know about the case:
1. Nigeria lost the playoff final on penalties
The Super Eagles lost the African playoff final to DR Congo 4–3 on penalties, missing out on direct qualification for the intercontinental playoff.
2. Nigeria filed a formal complaint to FIFA
After the match, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) submitted a petition to FIFA, alleging that DR Congo used ineligible players.
3. The petition centres on dual nationality claims
Nigeria argued that some DR Congo players were not eligible because DR Congo does not officially recognise dual citizenship.
4. Players named in the complaint
The NFF mentioned players such as Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, and Tephy Mavididi, who previously represented other countries at youth level or hold European passports.
5. NFF accused DR Congo of “fraud”
NFF Secretary General Mohammed Sanusi said the Congolese federation allegedly misled FIFA during the nationality switch process, calling it a breach of FIFA regulations.
6. DR Congo rejected Nigeria’s claims
The Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA) dismissed the petition, accusing Nigeria of trying to “win through the back door” and showing poor sportsmanship.
7. Possible outcomes if FIFA rejects Nigeria’s petition
If FIFA finds insufficient evidence, DR Congo will keep their spot in the intercontinental playoff, and the result will stand.
8. Possible punishment if FIFA finds wrongdoing
Even if procedural violations are found, FIFA may fine DR Congo or sanction the federation without changing the match result.
9. Rare but severe punishment could change the result
In extreme cases, FIFA could overturn the match result or deduct points—though this usually happens in group-stage competitions or clear registration fraud cases.
10. FIFA has not issued a verdict yet
Despite rumours online, FIFA has not released any official ruling, and both federations say they have not received any decision from world football’s governing body.
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