Nigeria Awaits FIFA Verdict on DR Congo World Cup Eligibility Protest

BY admin
February 16, 2026
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Nigeria is still waiting for an official ruling from FIFA following a formal protest lodged by the Nigeria Football Federation over the eligibility of players fielded by DR Congo national football team in the CAF World Cup playoff final.

DR Congo secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging Nigeria 4–3 on penalties in November. However, the NFF submitted a complaint to FIFA on December 15, 2025, alleging that several Congolese players may have been ineligible due to recent nationality switches.

Amid growing speculation online, the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, clarified that no verdict has yet been delivered by FIFA regarding the matter.

He dismissed circulating reports suggesting that a decision has already been made, describing them as false.

With tensions high and fans eagerly awaiting clarity, Nigeria now looks to FIFA for a final determination on the dispute that could have significant implications for World Cup qualification.