CAF Playoff
FIFA upholds DR Congo win, rejects Nigeria appeal over player eligibility
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In a final ruling on December 26, FIFA dismissed Nigeria's appeal challenging DR Congo players' eligibility in their 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff, confirming DR Congo's penalty shootout victory and advancement to intercontinental playoffs. This follows an initial dismissal reported earlier, ending Nigeria's qualification hopes.
In the lead-up to FIFA's dismissal of Nigeria's protest on December 18, 2025—as previously reported—the Nigeria Football Federation challenged DR Congo's 2026 World Cup playoff win on November 16 in Rabat, Morocco, alleging ineligible players due to dual nationality issues under Congolese law. The 1-1 draw went to a 4-3 penalty shootout victory for DR Congo, but Nigeria's detailed complaint kept qualification hopes alive briefly.
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DR Congo advanced to the inter-confederation playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating Nigeria 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the CAF playoff final. Frank Onyeka scored early for Nigeria, but Meschack Elia equalized before the break in Rabat. Chancel Mbemba converted the decisive penalty to shatter Nigeria's hopes.