FIFA Confirms DR Congo in World Cup Play-Off, Nigeria Out

FIFA has officially confirmed that DR Congo will participate in the inter-confederation play-off tournament for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which has dashed Nigeria's hopes of qualifying. This announcement was made on Wednesday, detailing that the tournament will feature six teams competing for the final two spots in the World Cup, which will be hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has challenged the results of a previous match against DR Congo, which ended in a 1-1 draw and was decided by penalties, resulting in Nigeria's elimination. The NFF has lodged a formal protest, alleging that DR Congo fielded an ineligible player during the match.

Despite their appeal to overturn the result and secure a place in the play-off, FIFA's decision leaves Nigeria without a path to the World Cup, with the tournament set to commence on March 26, 2025.