NFF Appeals FIFA's Rejection on DR Congo Player Eligibility

The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has commenced the process of appealing FIFA's decision to reject its petition regarding player eligibility issues involving the Democratic Republic of Congo. This petition was related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff match against Nigeria, which is set to take place on November 16, 2025, at the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.

The NFF received the decision from FIFA's Disciplinary Committee, which dismissed their complaint based on perceived fraudulent issuance of passports that allowed certain Congolese players to qualify for the playoff. The NFF, led by General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, aims to overturn this ruling through the appeal process, asserting that the initial complaint was unjustly dismissed.

The match ended in a 1-1 draw after regular and extra time, with the Congolese side winning in a sudden death penalty shootout, prompting Nigeria's protest.