While keeping mum about Nigeria’s protest regarding suspected player ineligibility, global football body FIFA has sanctioned both Nigeria and DR Congo after events during their 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff.
The disciplinary action stems from the final match played in Morocco in November 2025, during which both football federations were found to have violated match guidelines.
The Nigeria Football Federation was fined 1,000 Swiss francs for crowd-related issues, including objects tossed onto the pitch. DR Congo’s football body, meanwhile, was fined 5,000 Swiss francs when spectators allegedly utilised laser equipment during the game.
The News Chronicle understands that FIFA ignored Nigeria’s accusation that DR Congo fielded ineligible players, thereby generating doubts about the outcome of that protest.
In another development, the Jordan Football Association confirmed that, due to regional issues, a four-country invitational event, including Nigeria, had been moved from Amman to Antalya, Turkey.
As part of preparations before significant international events, Jordan, Iran, Nigeria, and Costa Rica will be included in the tournament, with the Super Eagles scheduled to play Iran first.
As disciplinary and eligibility issues continue to draw attention, the changes bring renewed interest to Nigeria’s World Cup buildup.
