The Nigeria Football Federation has begun the process of appealing FIFA’s decision to reject its petition against the Democratic Republic of Congo over the eligibility of some players used during their World Cup playoff clash.
The petition was initially submitted after Nigeria’s defeat to DR Congo in the African playoff final held in Rabat, Morocco. The match ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time, before DR Congo secured victory through a penalty shootout.
The NFF had alleged that several Congolese players were ineligible, citing concerns over the legitimacy of passports used to qualify them for international duty. The federation claimed there was possible fraud in the documentation presented.
However, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee dismissed the petition, stating that the players met its eligibility requirements, which are based on possession of a valid passport from the country represented.
Reacting to the decision, the NFF expressed dissatisfaction and confirmed that it has already initiated an appeal process. The federation assured Nigerians that it would pursue the matter further through the appropriate legal channels.
The appeal is expected to be taken to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, although it remains uncertain whether a final decision will be reached before the intercontinental playoff fixtures begin.
DR Congo, having won the playoff, is scheduled to face either Jamaica or New Caledonia in the next stage, with a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at stake.
The development adds another layer of uncertainty to Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes, as the outcome of the appeal could determine whether the Super Eagles have any remaining path to the tournament.
