The Nigeria Football Federation has voiced concern over FIFA’s delay in responding to its petition against DR Congo following Nigeria’s loss in the final game of the 2026 World Cup African playoff.
The Super Eagles were edged out 4 3 on penalties after the match finished 1 1, but the NFF later lodged a formal complaint alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during the playoff tournament hosted in Rabat, Morocco, in November.
Nigeria is asking FIFA to sanction DR Congo for the alleged breach and award the World Cup slot to the Super Eagles.
The News Chronicle notes that the silence from FIFA is creating uncertainty within the NFF as preparations for the next phase of qualification approach, with officials concerned about planning, logistics and team readiness if the outcome swings in Nigeria’s favour.
An NFF source said the federation expected clearer direction by now, noting that the matter is already stretching deep into January without any official response from football’s global governing body.
Meanwhile, the National Sports Commission chairman, Shehu Dikko, has indicated that the dispute could still end up at the Court of Arbitration for Sport depending on FIFA’s eventual decision, as either side may appeal if dissatisfied.
If Nigeria succeeds, the beneficiary of the ruling is expected to face the winner of the inter confederation playoff between Jamaica and New Caledonia in March in Mexico, keeping hopes alive among Nigerian fans for a place at the 2026 World Cup co hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
