NFF Appeals FIFA's Rejection on DR Congo Player Eligibility

The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has begun the appeal process following FIFA's rejection of their petition concerning the eligibility of a player from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). This situation arose after Nigeria lost to DR Congo 4-3 in a penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw in the Africa intercontinental playoff final held in Rabat, Morocco.

The NFF's petition, submitted in December, was based on allegations of fraud regarding the issuance of a passport that qualified the Congolese player. FIFA's disciplinary committee rejected the petition, prompting the NFF to express dissatisfaction with the decision.

Mohammed Sanusi, the NFF Secretary General, confirmed that the appeal process has commenced just a week before the intercontinental playoff is set to begin. This loss marks Nigeria's failure to qualify for the World Cup for the second consecutive time, having last participated in 2018.