Nigeria's Qualification Hope for 2026 World Cup Alive Amid Controversy

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has lodged a formal complaint with FIFA against DR Congo for allegedly fielding ineligible players during the African World Cup playoff final. The NFF accuses DR Congo of breaching eligibility regulations by having players with dual nationality, which is prohibited by DR Congo's citizenship law.

If FIFA upholds Nigeria's complaint, it could lead to Nigeria replacing DR Congo in the intercontinental playoff final for a chance to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The NFF believes FIFA misunderstood the player eligibility issue and is requesting a full investigation into the matter.