2026 World Cup: FIFA Set To Decide Nigeria’s DR Congo Eligibility Protest Monday

According to Ireporter Online, FIFA is set to deliver a ruling on Monday that could significantly affect Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

The controversy stems from a formal complaint lodged by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) against the Democratic Republic of Congo Football Association. The petition alleges that DR Congo fielded six ineligible players during last year’s African qualification play-offs, which saw Nigeria eliminated on penalties in Morocco.

NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi emphasized that Nigeria believes the protest has merit. “We believe that we have a chance; that is why we petitioned. If we knew we didn’t have a chance, we wouldn’t have petitioned,” he said, noting that all required documents and legal arguments were submitted according to due process.

The case centers on FIFA regulations concerning nationality switches. Players are permitted to change international allegiance only once and must follow a formal approval procedure. Nigeria contends that DR Congo misrepresented players’ eligibility, citing the country’s domestic ban on dual citizenship.

The matter has drawn wider attention due to reported involvement from CAF General Secretary Véron Mosengo-Omba, who maintains close ties to FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Both Nigeria and DR Congo are reportedly prepared to escalate the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport if FIFA’s ruling proves unsatisfactory.

If FIFA rules in favor of Nigeria, the Super Eagles would be reinstated in the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico later this month, facing the winner of Jamaica versus New Caledonia for one of the final slots in the 2026 tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, noted that the saga may extend beyond Monday’s decision. “It requires a lot of things, and by the time it is finally decided, whether Nigeria wins or DR Congo wins, I believe the case might even go to the Court of Arbitration for Sport,” he said.