The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has expressed confidence in securing a favourable verdict from FIFA in its ongoing dispute with the Democratic Republic of Congo over the alleged fielding of ineligible players during the November 2026 World Cup play-off final.
Nigeria’s qualification hopes suffered a serious blow after the Super Eagles lost to DR Congo on penalties at the Moulay Hassan Stadium, a result that appeared to seal a second straight absence from the World Cup.
However, weeks after the defeat, the NFF formally submitted a petition to FIFA, alleging that the Congolese team breached player eligibility rules.
Speaking on Brila FM, NFF General Secretary, Dr Sanusi Mohammed, stated that the federation would not have pursued the case without being confident in the strength of its claim.
“We don’t engage in actions we believe are pointless,” Mohammed said. “From our standpoint, we have a solid case and are awaiting FIFA’s response to the complaints we have lodged.”
FIFA has yet to release an official decision, leaving both Nigeria and DR Congo in limbo. The delay has sparked widespread debate among fans and analysts, with some critics—including former Super Eagles captain and coach Sunday Oliseh—questioning the decision to challenge the result off the pitch rather than accept the outcome on it.
Despite the criticism, the NFF insists its petition is firmly based on FIFA statutes, particularly those relating to player eligibility and dual nationality. DR Congo have denied any breach of the rules and continue to occupy their qualification position.
As it stands, 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.
The six-nation tournament features Iraq, Jamaica, Suriname, New Caledonia and Bolivia, with DR Congo set to face the winner of the New Caledonia versus Jamaica encounter. However, the line-up could still change.
Should FIFA rule in Nigeria’s favour, the Super Eagles could be reinstated, reopening a possible route to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.