FIFA has rejected Nigeria's formal protest alleging ineligible players in DR Congo's 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff victory. The decision upholds DR Congo's win, eliminating Nigeria from direct qualification. Nigeria has expressed disappointment but will respect the ruling.
On December 18, 2025, FIFA's adjudication body dismissed a protest filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) against DR Congo's use of allegedly ineligible players in their decisive African qualification playoff last month. The match ended 1-1 before DR Congo prevailed 4-3 in a penalty shootout, securing their spot in the inter-confederation playoffs for the final two places at the 2026 World Cup.
Nigeria's complaint centered on six to nine DR Congo players, many Europe-based with dual nationalities, claiming they violated Congolese law prohibiting dual citizenship. NFF general secretary Mohammed Sanusi stated, “The Congolese rules say you cannot have dual nationality... FIFA was deceived into clearing them. It is not FIFA’s responsibility to enforce Congolese law.” The NFF argued that FIFA relies on submitted documentation, which they alleged was fraudulent.
DR Congo's federation, Fecofa, rejected the claims, insisting all players were properly vetted and approved by FIFA beforehand. In a social media statement, Fecofa said, “If you cannot win on the pitch, then do not try to win from the back door... The World Cup has to be played with dignity and confidence – not with lawyers’ tricks.” FIFA's review confirmed compliance with its eligibility statutes, emphasizing that international rules, not national laws, govern player selection.
The ruling leaves the result intact, with no replay or points awarded to Nigeria. Nigerian officials expressed frustration but affirmed respect for the decision, shifting focus to supporting Africa's World Cup representatives. This case underscores tensions in African football over diaspora players and conflicting citizenship laws, as teams like DR Congo build squads from abroad. No appeals are anticipated, as FIFA's decisions in eligibility matters are final.
