FIFA Fines Nigeria and DR Congo for Disciplinary Incidents
FIFA sanctioned both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Congolese Football Association for disciplinary incidents during their November 2025 World Cup qualifier. Nigeria was fined 1,000 Swiss Francs for spectator misconduct involving object-throwing, violating Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. DR Congo received a heavier 5,000 Swiss Franc penalty for using laser pointers during the match, contravening Article 17.2.d. The sanctions follow Nigeria's controversial loss to DR Congo in the African play-offs, which ended their World Cup qualification hopes. Nigeria has since protested DR Congo's eligibility, claiming players hold European passports despite DR Congo's domestic law not recognizing dual citizenship for adults. NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi expressed concerns about FIFA potentially being deceived. However, National Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko urged caution, noting FIFA typically informs parties before final decisions and that DR Congo's inclusion in playoff preparations doesn't constitute a verdict.