FIFA Confirms DR Congo for World Cup 2026 Playoffs

FIFA has officially listed DR Congo as one of the six nations participating in the World Cup 2026 playoffs, which will take place in Mexico. This announcement comes despite the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) submitting a petition to FIFA, alleging that DR Congo fielded five ineligible players during the African playoff against Nigeria in November, which Nigeria lost in a penalty shootout.

The NFF claims that these players violated the country's constitution, which prohibits dual citizenship. However, FIFA has not yet responded to Nigeria's petition.

The playoffs will see teams from Bolivia, DR Congo, Iraq, Jamaica, New Caledonia, and Suriname compete for the final two spots in the World Cup, scheduled to be held across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The semi-finals are set for March 26, 2026, with the finals on March 31, 2026, where the winners will secure their places in the World Cup.