NFF Appeals FIFA Decision on DR Congo Playoff Eligibility
Nigeria's Football Federation (NFF) has formally appealed FIFA's rejection of its petition regarding DR Congo's eligibility of players in their 2026 World Cup playoff clash. The appeal follows Nigeria's 1-1 draw with DR Congo in Rabat, Morocco, which ended in a penalty shootout loss on November 16, 2025. NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi confirmed the federation is challenging FIFA's disciplinary ruling, citing alleged irregularities in DR Congo's issuance of passports to players. Nigeria's protest centers on DR Congo's domestic laws not recognizing dual citizenship for adults, questioning players holding European passports while representing the Congolese team. FIFA sanctioned both federations: Nigeria fined 1,000 Swiss Francs for spectator misconduct, while DR Congo received 5,000 Swiss Francs for using laser pointers. The appeal process could impact DR Congo's participation in the upcoming intercontinental play-off tournament in Mexico (March 26-31), where they are already listed among the six teams competing for World Cup qualification. Failure to qualify for consecutive World Cups would mark Nigeria's first absence since 1994.