Abuja, Nigeria
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has launched a formal probe into the eligibility of several players fielded by DR Congo during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, a move that could potentially revive Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the tournament. Nigeria was eliminated from the African play-offs by DR Congo in November following a 4–3 penalty shootout loss in Morocco, condemning the Super Eagles to missing consecutive World Cups.
The NFF confirmed it has submitted a petition to FIFA, challenging the status of up to nine DR Congo players who reportedly switched national allegiance. According to Nigerian officials, the core of the dispute lies in a conflict between FIFA rules and DR Congo’s domestic law, which does not permit dual nationality. While FIFA cleared the players based on them possessing valid Congolese passports, the NFF alleges that these players failed to formally renounce their previous citizenships—such as French or Dutch passports—as required by the Congolese constitution.
NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, stated that FIFA was “deceived” into clearing the players and that the NFF is exploring this loophole. DR Congo had been scheduled to participate in the final stage of the FIFA intercontinental play-off tournament, but its place may now be in jeopardy pending the outcome of the Nigerian investigation.
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