NFF Awaits FIFA Verdict on DR Congo Eligibility Dispute

The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is preparing for FIFA's verdict regarding a complaint about the eligibility of six players from the DR Congo, which stems from Nigeria's 4-3 penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in the African playoff final for the 2026 World Cup held in Morocco last November. The NFF formally petitioned FIFA, alleging that the six Congolese players, who recently switched their international allegiance, were ineligible to participate in the match.

FIFA is expected to review the complaint, with a decision anticipated by February 16, 2026. If the ruling favors Nigeria, the Super Eagles could be reinstated in the six-nation intercontinental playoff next month, keeping their hopes alive for qualifying for the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico on December 15, 2025.

NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi has previously expressed confidence in the federation's case, while NFF Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko has voiced optimism about a favorable outcome. Reports suggest that DR Congo may have leveraged influence through Ron Mosengo Omba, the Secretary General of the Confederation of African Football.