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By Seyi Babalola
FIFA has yet to rule on a petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players in last November’s 2026 World Cup African play-offs.
Nigerians were kept on edge on Monday in anticipation of the judgement, as the intercontinental play-offs are slated to take place between March 26 and 31 in Mexico.
Despite missing out on automatic qualification during the qualifying round last year, the Super Eagles went to the African play-offs, where they were finally defeated on penalties by DR Congo.
Several unconfirmed stories about the team’s fate surfaced on Monday, but NFF President Ibrahim Gusau stated the Federation was still waiting for a response from FIFA.
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“We are still waiting to hear from FIFA. We are hopeful, by the grace of God,” Gusau said.
DR Congo have been drawn to face the winner of the tie between New Caledonia and Jamaica for a chance to secure one of the two available World Cup slots.
As the play-offs approach, a verdict from FIFA is expected soon, with the NFF maintaining confidence in its case.
“We believe that we have a chance; that is why we petitioned. If we knew we didn’t have a chance, we wouldn’t have petitioned. That is our submission — it is now left to FIFA to decide,” the NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, said.
Nigeria’s protest is based on the alleged improper switch of nationality by some DR Congo players.
