NFF Confident as FIFA Decision Looms in DR Congo Player Eligibility Case

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The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has provided an update on its ongoing case with FIFA concerning an eligibility dispute involving the Democratic Republic of Congo, expressing confidence that the ruling will favour Nigeria.

The controversy stems from Nigeria’s dramatic penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in the November 2026 World Cup play-off final at the Moulay Hassan Stadium — a loss that appeared to seal the Super Eagles’ second straight failure to qualify for the World Cup.

NFF Petitions FIFA Over Eligibility Concerns

In the weeks following the defeat, the NFF formally lodged a complaint with FIFA, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players in violation of competition regulations.

Speaking on Brila FM, NFF General Secretary Dr Sanusi Mohammed insisted the federation would not have taken the matter to FIFA without solid grounds.

“We don’t engage in actions we know would be pointless,” Mohammed said.
“As far as we are concerned, we believe we have a strong case, and we are simply waiting for FIFA’s response to the complaints we submitted.”

FIFA Yet to Announce Verdict

FIFA has so far remained silent on the issue, with no official ruling released. The delay has kept both federations in limbo and sparked widespread debate among fans, analysts, and former players.

Some critics, including former Super Eagles captain and head coach Sunday Oliseh, have questioned the NFF’s decision to pursue the matter through administrative channels instead of accepting the result on the pitch.

NFF Stands Firm Despite Criticism

Despite the scrutiny, the NFF maintains that its petition is firmly rooted in FIFA statutes, particularly rules governing player eligibility and dual nationality. DR Congo, meanwhile, have categorically denied any breach of regulations and continue to hold onto their qualification status.

As things stand, DR Congo are scheduled to compete in the inter-confederation play-off tournament in Mexico on March 26 and 31, 2026, where the final World Cup slots will be decided.

Potential Changes to Play-Off Line-Up

The six-team play-off tournament features Iraq, Jamaica, Suriname, New Caledonia, Bolivia, and DR Congo. The Congolese side is currently set to face the winner of the New Caledonia versus Jamaica fixture, although that arrangement could still change depending on FIFA’s ruling.

Super Eagles Await Possible Reinstatement

Should FIFA rule in Nigeria’s favour, the Super Eagles could be reinstated into the qualification process, reopening a potential route to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Until FIFA delivers its verdict, Nigeria’s World Cup fate remains uncertain.