NFF Appeals FIFA Decision on DR Congo's Ineligible Player

The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has commenced the process of appealing a decision made by FIFA's Disciplinary Committee, which rejected their petition concerning DR Congo's alleged use of an ineligible player during the 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoffs final held in November. The NFF's appeal follows Nigeria's loss to DR Congo in a penalty shootout, with a final score of 4-3.

The NFF cited irregularities in the issuance of passports for qualifying players in the Congolese squad and is seeking the disqualification of DR Congo from the intercontinental playoffs, which are set to take place in just 10 days in Mexico. The NFF's General Secretary, Dr.

Mohammed Sanusi, confirmed the initiation of the appeal process on Tuesday. DR Congo's coach, Bastien Desabre, is preparing his team to replicate their previous performance against Nigeria as they face the winner of the Jamaica vs.

New Caledonia clash for a place in the World Cup.