The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) says it remains confident of a favourable ruling from FIFA in its ongoing case against the Democratic Republic of Congo over the alleged use of ineligible players during November’s 2026 World Cup play-off final.
Nigeria’s World Cup hopes suffered a major setback when the Super Eagles lost to DR Congo on penalties at the Moulay Hassan Stadium, a result that appeared to confirm a second consecutive absence from the global tournament.
However, weeks after the defeat, the NFF formally petitioned FIFA, claiming the Congolese side violated eligibility regulations.
NFF General Secretary, Dr Sanusi Mohammed, has insisted the federation would not have pursued the complaint without strong conviction in its case.
“We don’t venture into what we know is an exercise in futility,” Mohammed said in an interview with Brila FM.
“As far as we are concerned we have a good case and we are waiting for what FIFA will say as regards to the complaints we have logged.”
FIFA has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, leaving both Nigeria and DR Congo awaiting a final decision.
The delay has fuelled debate among fans and pundits, with some critics, including former Super Eagles captain and coach Sunday Oliseh, questioning the NFF’s decision to seek redress through administrative channels rather than accepting the on-pitch outcome.
Despite the criticism, the NFF maintains that its petition is grounded in FIFA regulations, particularly concerning player eligibility and dual nationality rules. DR Congo, for their part, have strongly denied any wrongdoing and continue to hold their qualification spot.
Under the current arrangement, DR Congo are scheduled to take part in the inter-confederation play-off tournament in Mexico on 26 and 31 March 2026, where two final World Cup tickets will be decided.
The six-team competition includes Iraq, Jamaica, Suriname, New Caledonia and Bolivia, with the Congolese side set to face the winner of the New Caledonia versus Jamaica tie. However, that line-up could still be altered.
If FIFA upholds Nigeria’s petition, the Super Eagles could yet be reinstated, reopening a potential pathway to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.
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