By Harry Awurumibe, Editor, Abuja Bureau
All is set for the much-awaited verdict of the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) on a petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) challenging the eligibility of some Congolese players during last year’s 2026 FIFA World Cup African Play-off match held in Morocco.
Prompt News reports that FIFA is expected to deliver a ruling tomorrow Monday, February 16, on a petition filed by the Nigeria football ruling body questioning the eligibility of certain Congolese players who featured in the game against Nigeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African Play-off last year.
At the heart of Nigeria’s protest are allegations that no fewer than nine players fielded by DR Congo violated domestic nationality laws that prohibit dual citizenship.
Although Nigeria lost the decisive play-off tie on penalties, a result that initially sent DR Congo to the intercontinental play-off tournament coming up soon, Monday’s decision could prove pivotal, determining which country claims Africa’s lone slot in next month’s intercontinental playoff against the winner of Jamaica and New Caledonia, scheduled to hold in Mexico in March 2026.
The Nigeria’s petition specifically names players, including Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Stephy Mavidizi, and Axel Tuanzebe, arguing that they were wrongly cleared to represent DR Congo despite reportedly holding European passports, contrary to Congolese law.
NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi told the media recently that Nigeria’s case is backed by verifiable documentation.
Said he: “The petition covers nine DR Congo players. FIFA was misled into clearing them because it does not interpret domestic citizenship laws. Congolese law forbids dual nationality, yet some of the players involved allegedly hold foreign passports. What we are saying is that the process was fraudulent.”
Furthermore, Nigerian football authorities cited FIFA’s recent sanctions against Malaysia as evidence that the world football body treats player eligibility violations with utmost seriousness when supported by credible proof.
However, sources alleged that officials from DR Congo and other Francophone nations are exerting influence within FIFA to secure a favourable outcome, amid fears that the strength of Nigeria’s evidence could tilt the verdict.
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With both Nigeria and DR Congo reportedly prepared to approach the Court of Arbitration for Sport if dissatisfied with FIFA’s ruling, the governing body is said to be treating the case with exceptional caution to avoid legal and reputational fallout.
