A decision from FIFA regarding Nigeria’s formal protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) use of allegedly ineligible players in a World Cup qualifier is set to be announced next month.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) lodged a petition with world football’s governing body following their dramatic playoff defeat to DRC last November.
The match, which ended 1-1 after extra time in Rabat, Morocco, saw DRC advance 4-3 on penalties.
The NFF’s protest contends that the Congolese team fielded multiple players who did not meet the eligibility criteria to represent the country in the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier. As a consequence, Nigeria has demanded that DRC be disqualified from the competition entirely.
The impending ruling, expected in February, holds significant stakes. Should FIFA rule in Nigeria’s favor, it could potentially lead to Nigeria’s reinstatement into the intercontinental playoff pathway. DRC is currently scheduled to face the winner of the Jamaica versus New Caledonia playoff in Mexico this March for a chance at World Cup qualification.
Top officials confirmed the timeline to SCORENigeria, following recent reports of “positive vibes” surrounding Nigeria’s petition. The football world now awaits a decision that could dramatically alter the landscape of the ongoing World Cup qualifying tournament.
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