Nigerians are still waiting for FIFA’s final decision on a petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), accusing DR Congo of fielding ineligible players during the 2026 World Cup African play-offs held in November 2025.
The ruling, which was earlier expected after FIFA’s meeting on Monday, has not been released and is now anticipated on Tuesday.
Football fans across Africa, especially in Nigeria, remain on edge as the verdict could potentially reopen Nigeria’s chance of returning to the intercontinental play-offs scheduled to take place in Mexico later this month, where the final World Cup tickets will be contested.
Here are the key details surrounding the case:
The match in question
Nigeria’s Super Eagles lost to DR Congo in the African play-off final in November 2025, falling 4–3 on penalties. The defeat ended Nigeria’s hopes of securing a World Cup ticket through that route.
Nigeria’s petition
Following the loss, the NFF reportedly submitted a formal complaint to FIFA in December 2025, alleging that DR Congo used players who were not eligible to represent the country.
Players at the centre of the claim
The petition is said to involve concerns over players such as Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe, who Nigeria believes may have switched nationalities improperly.
The nationality law argument
Nigeria’s main argument is tied to DR Congo’s constitution, which is believed to prohibit dual citizenship. The NFF claims that allowing players with dual nationality to represent DR Congo may conflict with FIFA’s nationality-switch guidelines and eligibility procedures.
What Nigeria is demanding
The NFF is reportedly seeking DR Congo’s disqualification, which could lead to FIFA awarding the match to Nigeria by a 3–0 scoreline or imposing other sanctions.
Possible outcome if FIFA rules for Nigeria
If FIFA upholds the petition, it could result in penalties such as a forfeiture, fines, disqualification, or other disciplinary measures. However, such decisions are rare in knockout matches unless there is strong evidence of wrongdoing.
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FIFA Yet to Decide on NFF Petition Over DR Congo Players’ Eligibility
If FIFA rejects the petition
If FIFA dismisses the case, DR Congo’s win will stand and Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup dream through the play-offs would officially end.
No official verdict yet
As of Tuesday, FIFA has not released any statement confirming a decision.
Fake reports in circulation
On Monday, several unconfirmed reports claimed FIFA had ruled in Nigeria’s favour, but NFF Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, dismissed the rumours.
“There is no decision from FIFA at this time. Any claims that a ruling has been made are false,” he stated.
Even a favourable ruling may not guarantee Nigeria’s return
Experts have also pointed out that even if DR Congo is handed a 3–0 defeat, it may not automatically mean Nigeria will qualify. FIFA could decide on alternative actions such as ordering a replay or making further adjustments that may involve other teams.
For now, Nigerians remain in suspense as FIFA’s final verdict is expected anytime soon.
