Nigerians have reacted with mixed feelings as they await FIFA’s ruling on the country’s petition against DR Congo over the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The decision, expected on Monday, will determine whether Nigeria’s complaint about player eligibility can revive the Super Eagles’ hopes of reaching the tournament.
On social media, some fans say they are hopeful but insist Nigeria should not qualify “through the back door” if DR Congo is punished. Others argue that if rules were broken, FIFA must apply sanctions even if it means overturning results decided on the pitch.
Nigeria’s petition centres on claims that several DR Congo players held dual nationalities in violation of Congolese law, which reportedly bans dual citizenship. Officials have alleged that some players were cleared despite holding European passports and being over 21, which they say made the process fraudulent.
Reports abroad have suggested that FIFA’s disciplinary bodies previously found DR Congo compliant with its own and FIFA’s rules in related eligibility checks. However, Nigerian officials maintain that world football’s governing body was misled by inaccurate documentation and that the matter should be revisited on the full facts.
As the verdict approaches, many Nigerians say the case has exposed wider issues in African football governance, from nationality rules to documentation and transparency. While some fans are praying for a lifeline to the World Cup, others have called on the Super Eagles to focus on rebuilding and qualifying on the field in future campaigns.
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