FIFA Rejects NFF Protest Over DR Congo Players' Eligibility

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) faced a significant setback in its pursuit of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after FIFA dismissed its protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo's national football team. The NFF lodged a complaint following the Super Eagles' defeat to DR Congo in the African playoff, citing concerns over the eligibility of several Congolese players.

FIFA's decision to reject the protest was based on the assertion that the players in question held valid passports and had received FIFA approval. Former Nigerian international Taju Disu expressed no surprise at FIFA's dismissal, noting the regulatory factors that worked against the NFF's case.

The NFF is now considering an appeal to FIFA's Disciplinary Committee and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The playoff match ended in a 1-1 draw, with DR Congo winning on penalties, making it unlikely for the NFF to overturn the result without substantial evidence of wrongdoing.