NIGERIA KEEPS HOPE ALIVE AS FIFA YET TO RULE ON DR CONGO CASE

World football governing body FIFA has yet to issue a ruling on a petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), which alleges that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during last November’s 2026 World Cup African play-offs.

Nigerians were left in suspense on Monday as they awaited the decision, with the intercontinental play-offs scheduled for March 26 to 31 in Mexico.

The Super Eagles failed to secure automatic qualification during the initial qualifying series but progressed to the African play-offs, where they lost to DR Congo on penalties.

Amid circulating reports about the case, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau confirmed that the federation was still expecting official communication from FIFA.

“We are still waiting to hear from FIFA. We are hopeful, by the grace of God,” Gusau said.

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DR Congo have been paired against the winner of the New Caledonia versus Jamaica tie for a chance to claim one of the two remaining World Cup slots.

The NFF maintains confidence in its petition. General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi said the federation would not have filed a complaint if it lacked merit, adding that the final decision now rests with FIFA.

Nigeria’s protest centres on the alleged improper change of nationality by certain DR Congo players. Under FIFA regulations, a player may switch national associations only once, following a formal, substantiated application approved by FIFA’s Players’ Status Committee. The rules also require possession of a valid passport from the new country of representation. However, Congolese law does not recognise dual nationality — a key element of Nigeria’s complaint.

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi expressed optimism, saying the team remains hopeful of securing a World Cup berth.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, suggested that whichever side is dissatisfied with FIFA’s ruling could ultimately approach the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19 across 16 cities in the three host nations.