FIFA MARKS 100-DAY COUNTDOWN TO 2026 WORLD CUP, SILENT ON NIGERIA-DR CONGO DISPUTE

Read Time:1 Minute, 24 Second

Agency Report

World football governing body FIFA on Tuesday launched the final 100-day countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, signalling the approach of the expanded global tournament.

In a post on its official X handle, FIFA wrote: “The biggest-ever @FIFAWorldCup is just 100 days away! 48 teams. 104 games. 11 June to 19 July.” It described June 11, 2026, as “the opening scene to the greatest show in the world,” referencing the tournament’s first match between Mexico and South Africa.

However, the global body did not provide any update on the anticipated disciplinary verdict involving Nigeria national football team and Democratic Republic of the Congo national football team.

The dispute arose after Nigeria’s defeat to DR Congo in the African playoff final in November 2025, where the Super Eagles lost on penalties, securing DR Congo’s place in the intercontinental playoffs.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) subsequently petitioned FIFA in December 2025, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players.

The NFF claimed that former England youth internationals Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe featured for DR Congo in violation of Congolese laws prohibiting dual citizenship and FIFA eligibility rules.

More than two months later, and with DR Congo preparing for intercontinental playoffs later this month—potentially against Jamaica or New Caledonia—FIFA has yet to issue a ruling, though it previously confirmed that the matter was under review.

The delay has drawn criticism in Nigeria, where stakeholders and fans have expressed frustration over the lack of clarity as the World Cup draws closer.

If upheld, Nigeria’s complaint could result in DR Congo’s disqualification and potentially reinstate the Super Eagles in the qualification process.