The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) says it remains optimistic that FIFA will rule in its favour concerning the petition against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) over the eligibility of players used in November’s World Cup play-off final, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup were dealt a heavy blow when the Super Eagles lost on penalties to DR Congo at the Moulay Hassan Stadium. It was a result that appeared to condemn them to a second consecutive absence from the global tournament.
However, weeks after that defeat, the NFF confirmed it had formally approached FIFA, alleging that DR Congo breached regulations by fielding ineligible players during the decisive fixture.
FIFA has remained silent over the matter, with Nigeria and DR Congo keen to know the final decision of the football-governing body.
There have been criticisms, including from former Super Eagles captain and coach Sunday Oliseh, aimed at the NFF for its attempt to claim victory over DR Congo via administrative technicalities rather than on the pitch.
But the NFF insists it is not on a wild goose chase.
Speaking on the matter, NFF General Secretary Dr Sanusi Mohammed said the federation would not have pursued the case without confidence in its position.
“We have a good case,” Sanusi told Brila.net. “We don’t venture into what we know is an exercise in futility.”
Sanusi added that Nigeria’s complaint is still being reviewed by world football’s governing body and that the federation is waiting patiently for a response.
“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.”
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Nigeria's petition: What is at stake as FIFA deliberates
The NFF’s argument is based on claims that DR Congo fielded players who allegedly breached FIFA rules on eligibility, particularly around dual nationality. DR Congo have strongly denied any wrongdoing and, for now, retain their place as Africa’s representatives in the inter-confederation play-offs.
FIFA has yet to announce a date for its verdict, leaving the situation unresolved just two months before the next stage of the qualification process.
Under the current arrangement, DR Congo are set to compete in the inter-confederation play-off tournament scheduled for 26 and 31 March 2026 in Mexico. The mini-tournament will decide two final qualification places for the World Cup, which will be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.
Alongside DR Congo, the six-team competition features Iraq, Jamaica, Suriname, New Caledonia and Bolivia. The Congolese side are due to face the winner of the tie between New Caledonia and Jamaica.
However, that line-up could still change.
Should FIFA uphold Nigeria’s petition, the Super Eagles could yet be reinstated and handed a late route back into contention for a place at the 2026 World Cup.
