The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has said there is no truth to claims that FIFA has delivered a verdict on Nigeria’s protest against DR Congo national football team.
Online reports had suggested world football’s governing body had ruled on the eligibility dispute stemming from November’s World Cup play-off, with some posts even alleging that Nigeria had been awarded a 3-0 victory.
But the NFF says no such decision exists.
“There is no decision from FIFA at this time,” NFF Director of Communications Ademola Olajire said.
“Any claims that a ruling has been made are false. FIFA has not communicated any verdict to us or to the Congolese federation.”
The dispute arose after the Nigeria national football team were beaten on penalties by DR Congo in the final African play-off round for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending their hopes of progressing to the intercontinental stage.
Why Nigeria protested
Nigeria’s complaint centres on questions surrounding nationality.
The NFF argued that DR Congo’s domestic laws, which largely restrict dual citizenship for adults, raised concerns about whether certain players were eligible to represent the Leopards while holding European passports.
General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi said the federation’s concern was not about FIFA’s rules themselves, but whether complete and accurate information had been supplied during the clearance process.
“As far as FIFA is concerned, once you have the passport of your country, you are eligible,” Sanusi said. “But our concern is that FIFA may have been deceived into clearing them.”
Under FIFA regulations, a valid passport is key to establishing nationality for sporting purposes, provided other eligibility requirements are met.
DR Congo have rejected the claims and insist the matter should be settled on the field of play.
Hérita Ilunga, the Congolese FA’s Director of Football, said FIFA’s definition of sporting nationality not domestic citizenship policy governs player eligibility.
In a message posted on the federation’s official X account, DR Congo added: “If you can’t win on the pitch, don’t try to win from the back door. The World Cup has to be played with dignity and confidence, not with lawyers’ tricks.
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FIFA has the authority to investigate allegations relating to eligibility or documentation. If wrongdoing were established, sanctions could include player bans or match forfeiture.
however, the NFF maintains that no ruling has been issued and says it will only comment further when formally notified.
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Until then, any reports suggesting that the Super Eagles have been reinstated or that DR Congo have been punished remain unsubstantiated.
