DR Congo eligibility row: FIFA silence keeps Super Eagles’ World Cup hopes in suspense
Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup through a petition against DR Congo remain in limbo as FIFA continues to delay a verdict on the eligibility case. The Nigeria Football Federation is challenging DR Congo’s use of several players in last November’s African playoff final, which the Super Eagles lost on penalties. The NFF alleges that some DR Congo stars held dual citizenship and did not fully comply with both Congolese law and FIFA’s nationality switch rules before playing in the tie. Officials argue that the Congolese federation misled FIFA during player clearance, and are pushing for DR Congo’s disqualification and Nigeria’s reinstatement into the intercontinental playoff in Mexico. Reports earlier suggested that FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee would announce its decision in February, giving clarity before the March 26–31 play‑off window. However, as at mid February, Nigerian officials say they […]