NFF Appeals FIFA Ruling on DR Congo Player Eligibility

The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has initiated a process to challenge a ruling by FIFA's Disciplinary Committee concerning the eligibility of a player from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). This dispute arose following a match in Rabat last November, where Nigeria's Super Eagles lost to DR Congo in a penalty shootout, with a score of 4-3.

The NFF is contesting the legitimacy of the documentation used by a member of the Congolese squad, alleging irregularities in passport issuance. Despite a month-long wait, the NFF confirmed it received FIFA's verdict, which dismissed their protest.

However, NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi stated on Tuesday that the ongoing dispute has not diminished DR Congo's hopes for the World Cup. DR Congo is set to face the winner of the match between Jamaica and New Caledonia, with the final playoff scheduled to take place from March 26 to March 31, 2026, in Guadalajara and Monterrey, as part of the expanded 2026 World Cup tournament.