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| FIFA is expected to announce its decision on Nigeria’s World Cup petition against DR Congo over alleged player eligibility violations. |
By Precious E.
The World Cup qualification dispute involving Nigeria and DR Congo remains unresolved as FIFA prepares to issue a decision on a formal petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The complaint challenges DR Congo’s player eligibility during the African play-offs for the 2026 World Cup.
FIFA had been expected to announce its ruling after a meeting on Monday, but no statement was released. A decision is now anticipated on Tuesday.
The outcome of the World Cup case could determine whether Nigeria’s Super Eagles still have a path back into the qualification race.
World Cup Play-Off Dispute Explained
The controversy stems from the African play-off final held in November 2025. Nigeria lost to DR Congo 4–3 on penalties after a tightly contested match, ending the Super Eagles’ hopes of securing a place at the 2026 World Cup.
In December, the NFF lodged a formal protest with FIFA. The federation alleged that DR Congo fielded players who were not eligible under international football rules.
At the center of Nigeria’s argument is the nationality status of several DR Congo players, including Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe. Nigeria claims the players hold dual nationality, which it argues conflicts with DR Congo’s constitutional provisions on citizenship and FIFA regulations governing player eligibility and nationality switches.
The NFF is seeking sanctions that could include disqualification of DR Congo from the playoff result. If upheld, Nigeria could be awarded a 3–0 victory or benefit from other corrective measures under FIFA’s disciplinary framework.
However, football regulations in knockout competitions are complex. Even if a breach is established, FIFA would determine the appropriate remedy based on the specifics of the case.
What Happens Next in the World Cup Case
If FIFA dismisses the petition, DR Congo’s victory will stand, and Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup campaign will be formally concluded.
If the petition succeeds, several scenarios are possible. These range from forfeiture of the match to financial penalties or other sanctions. In rare instances, governing bodies have ordered replays or adjusted standings, depending on the circumstances.
Unverified reports circulated on Monday claiming that FIFA had ruled in Nigeria’s favor. The NFF denied those claims. Its Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, said no official decision had been communicated and described the circulating reports as false.
The World Cup ruling carries weight beyond the two nations involved. It touches on how FIFA interprets nationality laws and eligibility regulations in international competitions. The decision may also influence future cases where domestic citizenship rules intersect with global football governance.
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For Nigeria, the verdict will determine whether there is still a mathematical chance of returning to the World Cup qualification pathway. For DR Congo, it could confirm their progress or reopen a contest they believed settled on the pitch.
FIFA has yet to issue its final decision on the World Cup petition.
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