World Cup 2026: FIFA rejects Nigeria’s complaint against the DR Congo

No surprise. FIFA has officially rejected the complaint filed by Nigeria concerning the eligibility of several players from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Super Eagles, eliminated in the penalty shootout during the final of the African play-offs last November, challenged the regularity of some Congolese binationals, arguing that Congolese law does not allow dual nationality. Nigeria was hoping for a green-mat win to validate their ticket to the intercontinental play-offs.

After reviewing the files, the world body ruled in favor of the Leopards, confirming that the Congolese Federation had respected all applicable administrative procedures. FIFA recalled that sporting eligibility is based on the possession of a valid passport and prior approval of the change of national association, criteria that the DRC has scrupulously met for its entire workforce.

This decision puts an end to Nigeria’s hopes of resurfacing and definitively secures the place of the DRC for the rest of the qualifiers. The Leopards can now calmly project themselves towards their intercontinental play-off scheduled for March 2026, while Nigerian football must register a painful absence for the next edition of the World Cup.