FIFA to decide NFF petition over Dr Congo on Monday

Nigerian football fans are on edge as FIFA prepares to issue a ruling on Monday, 16th February, regarding a petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) challenging the eligibility of several players fielded by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) in the 2026 World Cup African play-off final

The Super Eagles were eliminated after a dramatic 4–3 penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in November 2025, ending Nigeria’s hopes of direct qualification for the FIFA World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The NFF lodged its formal protest on 15th December 2025, claiming that six DR Congo players who participated in the match were ineligible due to recent nationality switches.

General Secretary of the NFF, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, expressed confidence in the petition, saying, “We have a good case… we do not venture into what would be an exercise in futility.”

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi reflected the cautious optimism of the team, stating, “We are still waiting; hopefully we can go to the World Cup.”

If FIFA rules in Nigeria’s favour, the Super Eagles could be reinstated in the qualification process and compete in the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico next month for a chance at one of the final two World Cup spots.

Officials from DR Congo have previously dismissed the allegations, arguing that FIFA’s eligibility rules permit their players to represent the country. Critics of the petition maintain that on-field results, rather than legal challenges, should determine qualification.

As the 16th February ruling approaches, millions of Nigerian fans remain glued to updates that could potentially reshape the Super Eagles’ path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.