FIFA is scheduled to deliver its verdict on February 16, 2026, regarding Nigeria's petition against the Democratic Republic of Congo over alleged ineligible players in the 2026 World Cup African qualifiers. The Nigeria Football Federation claims six Congolese players violated eligibility rules due to improper nationality switches. A favorable ruling could reinstate Nigeria in the intercontinental play-offs.
The controversy arose after Nigeria's Super Eagles lost to DR Congo on penalties during the African play-offs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Morocco in November 2025. On December 15, 2025, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) lodged a formal complaint with FIFA, alleging that six DR Congo players were ineligible because their nationality switches were improper and fraudulent, contravening DR Congo's laws on dual nationality. These players, born or raised abroad, are said to retain foreign citizenship despite representing the Central African nation.
NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi expressed confidence in the petition, stating, “We have a good case. We don’t go into things that would be a waste of time. We believe we have a strong case, and we are waiting for FIFA’s decision on our complaints.” He added, “We believe that we have a chance; that is why we petitioned. If we knew we didn’t have a chance, we wouldn’t have petitioned.” Nigerian officials followed due process, submitting documentary and legal evidence.
DR Congo has denied the allegations, labeling Nigeria as “bad losers” and accusing them of desperation following the play-off defeat. The case has drawn attention due to reported involvement from Confederation of African Football General Secretary Véron Mosengo-Omba, who has ties to FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Former Nigeria international Peter Ijeh voiced skepticism about the protest's success, noting the timing constraints with the World Cup approaching in June or July 2026. He said, “We are in 2026 already... time factor is against every protest.” Analysts suggest the verdict could set a precedent for resolving player eligibility disputes under FIFA's rules, which include criteria like birthplace, parental or grandparental ancestry, residency after age 18, and provisions for switching after limited senior caps before age 21.
Both nations are prepared to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport if dissatisfied. A win for Nigeria would grant them Africa's spot in the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico later in February 2026.
