Nigeria Football Federation says it remains confident that FIFA will rule in its favour as it awaits a decision on a formal complaint against the Democratic Republic of Congo over player eligibility in November’s World Cup play-off final.
The Super Eagles hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup appeared to end when they lost on penalties to DR Congo in the decisive play-off match final, a result that would leave Nigeria absent from the global tournament for a second consecutive edition.
NFF confirmed in December that it had submitted a petition to FIFA, alleging that DR Congo breached eligibility regulations by fielding players who did not meet the governing body’s requirements during the match.
FIFA has not yet made its findings public, with both federations waiting for clarity as preparations continue for the next phase of qualification.
The complaint has drawn mixed reactions at home, with some critics questioning Nigeria’s decision to pursue an administrative route rather than accept the outcome on the pitch.
Super Eagles coaching crew led by Eric Chelle. Photo Credit: X
However, the NFF has dismissed suggestions that the case lacks merit.
Speaking on the matter, the federation’s general secretary, Dr Sanusi Mohammed, said the decision to approach FIFA was taken only after careful consideration.
“We have a good case, we don’t venture into what we know is an exercise in futility” Sanusi told Brila.net.
Akor Adams celebrating his second goal for the Super Eagles against Gabon in the CAF FIFA world playoff Semi final. Photo Credit: Poojamedia
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,” he said.
DR Congo have strongly denied any wrongdoing and, for now, remain listed as Africa’s representatives in the inter-confederation play-offs.
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Under the current schedule, the Congolese side are set to compete in the six-team play-off tournament later in March in Mexico, with two final World Cup places at stake at the finals to be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.
Tolu Arokodare celebrating his first competitive goal for the Super Eagles against Rwanda in Uyo. Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
The tournament also includes Iraq, Jamaica, Suriname, New Caledonia and Bolivia, with DR Congo due to face the winner of the tie between Jamaica and New Caledonia.
That line-up, however, could still change.
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If FIFA upholds Nigeria’s petition, the Super Eagles could yet be reinstated and handed an unexpected route back into contention for a place at the 2026 World Cup turning a painful play-off defeat into a renewed qualification lifeline.
