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.
Plus234Feed summary based on reporting from This Day. Read the original report below.
Read full article
Continue on This Day
Get the week in one email
Top stories, NPFL results, the naira — every Friday morning. Free, one email a week.
Related Stories
FIFA to Decide on Nigeria's Petition Against DR Congo for 2026 World Cup Playoff
DR Congo Squad Announced, Omit Players in FIFA Complaint
FIFA to Decide on Nigeria's Case Against DR Congo for 2026 World Cup Qualification
FIFA to Decide on Nigeria's Protest Over DR Congo Players
DR Congo Competes for World Cup Spot in Playoffs
Nigeria Eliminated from World Cup as DR Congo Advances
Get Plus234Feed on messaging apps
Same headlines, delivered where you already scroll.
