NFF Clarifies FIFA's Stance on Nigeria-DRC Dispute

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has addressed rumors concerning FIFA's verdict on Nigeria's protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) regarding an alleged ineligible player. This controversy emerged after Nigeria's Super Eagles were eliminated by DRC in a penalty shootout during the World Cup playoff in November 2022, which ended Nigeria's chances of qualifying for the intercontinental playoff later in the year.

In response, the NFF lodged a formal complaint with FIFA, challenging the eligibility status of certain players in the DRC squad. The NFF's position is based on Congolese law, which does not recognize dual nationality, suggesting that a player represented the DRC while holding a European passport.

However, the NFF confirmed that FIFA has not rendered any judgment on the issue. Ademola Olajire, the NFF's Director of Communications, labeled reports indicating a ruling in favor of either Nigeria or DRC as false, stating that no decision has been communicated by FIFA at this time.