The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has dismissed rumors of an imminent FIFA decision on its December 2025 protest challenging DR Congo's use of ineligible players in the 2026 World Cup African playoff final. As of February 17, 2026, no ruling has been issued, despite online speculation.
Nigeria's Super Eagles lost 4-3 on penalties to DR Congo's Leopards after a 1-1 draw in the November 2025 African zone play-offs in Morocco, ending Nigeria's hopes for the intercontinental qualifiers. The NFF lodged a formal complaint on December 15, alleging at least six Congolese players—including former England youth internationals Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe—were ineligible due to violations of FIFA rules and Congolese law prohibiting dual nationality. The players, who hold European passports, also featured for DR Congo at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi stated: "The Congolese rule (law) says you cannot have dual nationality but some of their players have European and French passports. Our contention is that FIFA was deceived into clearing them." The Congolese Football Federation dismissed the protest as an attempt to "win via the back door" and sour grapes.
Ahead of an anticipated verdict around February 16, online reports fueled rumors of a decision, but NFF Director of Communications Ademola Olajire clarified on February 17: "There is no decision from FIFA at this time. Any claims that a ruling has been made are false. FIFA has not communicated any verdict to the NFF or the Congolese federation."
Sanusi added confidence in the case: “We have a solid case... We are optimistic that FIFA’s decision will reflect the merits of our complaint.” FIFA has confirmed the matter is under review without a timetable. Potential outcomes range from dismissal to administrative sanctions or a forfeit awarding Nigeria the win. DR Congo awaits a March 2026 intercontinental play-off against New Caledonia or Jamaica, with the winner joining Group K (Portugal, Uzbekistan, Colombia) at the 48-team World Cup.
Fans have voiced anxiety and support online, with former Super Eagles defender Mutiu Adepoju backing enforcement of rules and striker Peter Ijeh noting timing concerns. Nigeria, 2025 Afcon bronze medalists, risks missing a second straight World Cup, while DR Congo could return after 1974 (as Zaire).
Part of ongoing coverage: [Previous: FIFA set to rule on Nigeria's protest against DR Congo]. This highlights persistent eligibility issues in African football.
