FIFA has officially dismissed widespread rumours suggesting the Democratic Republic of Congo could face disqualification from the 2026 World Cup playoffs over Aaron Wan-Bissaka's eligibility status. The speculation emerged following DR Congo's victory against Nigeria's Super Eagles in the crucial African playoff final.
The Controversial Victory
The football world witnessed intense drama as DR Congo defeated Nigeria's Super Eagles in a nail-biting encounter that determined which team would advance to the inter-continental stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs. After a tense 1-1 draw following 120 minutes of play, the match was ultimately decided by penalties, with DR Congo emerging victorious with a 4-3 shootout win.
West Ham United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka featured prominently in the starting lineup during that decisive match, sparking immediate reactions among Nigerian fans. Unconfirmed reports began circulating across social media platforms, suggesting the England-born player might have been ineligible to represent DR Congo in the African playoffs held in Morocco.
Wan-Bissaka's International Journey
The 27-year-old defender, born in Croydon, England, had previously represented both England and DR Congo at youth levels. In August 2019, Wan-Bissaka received his first call-up to the senior England team for UEFA Euro 2020 qualifiers against Kosovo and Bulgaria, though a back injury forced his withdrawal from the squad.
At the time, the player had clearly stated his international ambitions, telling Mirror in 2019: "The aim is England. I am happy playing with England and representing England, so that is what I am going to continue doing."
However, in a significant turn of events during 2024, Wan-Bissaka expressed interest in representing his ancestral homeland at senior level. This required an official switch of international allegiance, which FIFA approved on August 22, 2025.
FIFA's Official Statement
A FIFA official directly addressed the rumours in a statement to BSN Sports, categorically denying any investigation into DR Congo's eligibility status. "We have not received any protest or official complaint from any federation. There is absolutely no discussion regarding DR Congo's disqualification," the official stated.
The official further emphasized that "The player in question has been eligible to represent DR Congo prior to the playoff match" and questioned the basis of the circulating rumours. This definitive statement from world football's governing body should put to rest any speculation about DR Congo's participation in the upcoming inter-continental playoffs.
Wan-Bissaka made his international debut for DR Congo in a 4-1 victory against South Sudan during the World Cup qualifiers and played crucial roles in both the victory against Cameroon and the decisive win over Nigeria that secured DR Congo's place in the next stage.
Super Eagles' Coaching Future
The defeat has raised questions about the future of Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle, who replaced Augustine Eguavoen as head coach. Despite having a talented squad featuring prominent players like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi, Nigeria failed to overcome DR Congo in the critical playoff match.
This development adds another chapter to Nigeria's World Cup qualification struggles, leaving fans and analysts contemplating what changes might be necessary for the Super Eagles to secure future international success.
