NFF Rejects FIFA Verdict Reports on DR Congo Player Eligibility

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially dismissed circulating reports about a FIFA verdict concerning Nigeria's protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) Football Federation regarding the eligibility of certain players. This controversy arose after Nigeria's elimination from the African playoff finals in November, which dashed the Super Eagles' hopes of progressing to the intercontinental playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The NFF lodged a formal complaint with FIFA, questioning the eligibility of several Congolese players, citing that Congolese law does not recognize dual nationality for adults. NFF officials, including Director of Communications Ademola Olajire, clarified that FIFA has yet to issue a ruling on the matter.

Olajire described reports suggesting a verdict favoring either Nigeria or DR Congo as false and misleading. NFF General Secretary Moham Sanusi raised concerns about the Congolese Football Association providing incomplete and misleading documents regarding player eligibility.

Rita Ilunga, DR Congo's Director of Football, maintained that FIFA's decisions are based on sporting regulations, not domestic citizenship laws.