The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has launched a formal challenge that could dramatically alter the landscape of African football's road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The federation has submitted an official petition to world football's governing body, FIFA, concerning the eligibility of six players fielded by the Democratic Republic of Congo during their crucial playoff victory over Nigeria.
The Controversial Victory and Nigeria's Protest
This dispute stems from the final African playoff match, where DR Congo defeated Nigeria in a penalty shootout, effectively shattering the Super Eagles' dream of qualifying for the 2026 tournament to be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. However, the NFF's subsequent action has thrown that result into serious doubt. Dr. Mohamed Sanusi, the General Secretary of the NFF, confirmed the submission of the petition, as reported by Vanguard newspaper.
The core of Nigeria's argument hinges on the DR Congo constitution, which reportedly does not permit dual citizenship, except for individuals born abroad who must choose one nationality before turning 21. The NFF alleges that several Congolese players who switched their international allegiance failed to meet this constitutional requirement, rendering them ineligible to represent the Central African nation.
The Six Players Under FIFA Scrutiny
The petition specifically flags six stars whose international status is now under examination.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka: The former Manchester United defender made his long-awaited debut for DR Congo in September against South Sudan after years of waiting for an England call-up. Despite the switch, it is claimed he retains his English nationality.
Axel Tuanzebe: Another former Manchester United player, Tuanzebe was born in DR Congo but moved to England at age five. He represented England at youth levels before his 2024 switch and is reported to have not renounced his English citizenship.
Nathanael Mbuku: Born in France, Mbuku played for French youth teams, including the Olympic side. He switched allegiance in 2024 when he was already over 21 and is said to still hold French nationality.
Lionel Mpasi: The goalkeeper, born in France, acquired French citizenship in 2000. Reports indicate he did not relinquish it when he debuted for DR Congo in 2022.
Timothy Fayulu: Born in Switzerland, Fayulu was part of the Swiss U21 squad for the 2021 European Championship. He switched to represent DR Congo in 2025.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha: The Belgian-born player received FIFA approval for his national team switch just before the playoffs and made his debut against Nigeria itself.
Potential Consequences and a World Cup Lifeline for Nigeria
The implications of this petition are monumental. If FIFA's investigation upholds the NFF's claims, DR Congo faces severe sanctions, which could include forfeiting the playoff match. Such a decision would hand Nigeria a 3-0 victory by default and, crucially, a passage to the intercontinental playoff for a final shot at World Cup qualification.
The NFF's Director of Media and Communications has publicly confirmed the petition, leaving the Nigerian football community and the Super Eagles in a state of anxious anticipation. The world now awaits FIFA's verdict, which will determine whether DR Congo's historic win stands or if Nigeria's World Cup dream has been unexpectedly resurrected.
