NFF Denies FIFA Verdict Reports on DR Congo World Cup Dispute
The Nigeria Football Federation has officially dismissed widespread online reports claiming that FIFA has already delivered a verdict on Nigeria's protest against the Democratic Republic of the Congo regarding alleged ineligible players. The federation insists that no official decision has been communicated by football's world governing body and urges fans to ignore what it describes as false and misleading information circulating on social media and various news platforms.
Background of the Dispute
The controversy stems from Nigeria's painful elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup by DR Congo in the final round of the African play-offs last November. After the match ended 1-1 following extra time, the Congolese side edged the Super Eagles 4-3 on penalties, effectively ending Nigeria's hopes of reaching the intercontinental play-offs. Following this defeat, the NFF submitted a formal petition to FIFA, questioning the eligibility of several DR Congo players based on Congolese domestic law, which largely does not recognise dual citizenship for adults.
Nigeria argued that some players who featured for the Leopards allegedly retained foreign passports, including Belgian, English, French, and Dutch nationalities, without formally renouncing their original citizenship. In response, DR Congo rejected Nigeria's position, insisting that FIFA's definition of sporting nationality, not domestic citizenship law, determines a player's eligibility. Congolese officials maintained that all players fielded were cleared under FIFA regulations and urged Nigeria to accept the result on the pitch.
NFF Reacts to Speculation
Speculation intensified in recent days after documents circulated online suggesting FIFA had ruled in Nigeria's favour and awarded the Super Eagles a 3-0 victory, which would have restored their World Cup hopes. The NFF moved quickly to shut down these claims, with Ademola Olajire, Director of Communications at the federation, describing the reports as "false and misleading." He stated, "There is no decision from FIFA at this time. Any claims that a ruling has been made are false. FIFA has not communicated any verdict to the NFF or the Congolese federation."
The NFF also warned Nigerians against believing fabricated reports, stressing that only official communication from FIFA should be trusted. According to the federation, the fake documents spreading online were never issued by FIFA, and the case remains under review with no official timeline given for a final decision.
Potential Implications of FIFA's Review
FIFA retains the authority to investigate cases involving alleged fraud, misrepresentation, or document falsification. If wrongdoing is proven, sanctions could range from player bans and match forfeitures to possible expulsion from competitions. Nigeria could be reinstated back into the 2026 World Cup race if FIFA rules in favour of the NFF, but the outcome is far from guaranteed. Traditionally, FIFA relies on the passports and paperwork submitted by national associations at the time of clearance when determining eligibility, making Nigeria's case complex and uncertain.
DR Congo's Reported Moves
Earlier reports indicated that the Democratic Republic of Congo has reportedly made a late move ahead of FIFA's verdict on Nigeria's petition. DR Congo is allegedly trying to use the influence of CAF Secretary General Véron Mosengo-Omba, who is Congolese, to lobby at FIFA and receive a favourable verdict. This adds another layer of intrigue to the ongoing dispute, highlighting the high stakes involved for both nations.
For now, the matter remains under FIFA review, with fans and officials alike awaiting an official announcement. The NFF continues to emphasise patience and caution, urging the public to rely solely on verified sources for updates on this critical issue.
