FIFA Rejects NFF Petition, Super Eagles Out of World Cup Play-Off

FIFA has officially dismissed the Nigeria Football Federation's (NFF) petition against the Fédération Congolaise de Football Association concerning the eligibility of six Congolese players. This decision, confirmed on February 17, means that the Super Eagles will not participate in the six-nation intercontinental play-off tournament scheduled for March, effectively ending their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The NFF had argued that these players were ineligible due to recent switches in international allegiance. Despite the NFF's confidence in their case, FIFA concluded that the arguments presented were not strong enough to prevent DR Congo from progressing.

Following a penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in November during the African play-off final, Nigeria was denied direct qualification. The NFF is considering challenging FIFA's decision through the Court of Arbitration for Sport.