Nigeria’s football community is growing increasingly frustrated as FIFA continues to delay a ruling on the eligibility of players fielded by DR Congo during last November’s Africa 2026 World Cup play-off.
The decision, which could determine whether the Nigeria national football team secure a lifeline to the global tournament, follows a protest lodged in December by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
At the centre of the dispute are allegations that players including Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe were ineligible under Congolese law, which reportedly prohibits dual citizenship. DR Congo defeated Nigeria on penalties to advance to an intercontinental play-off against either Jamaica or New Caledonia.
NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi insisted that the Congolese regulation bars dual nationality and argued that some players possessed European passports. “Our contention is that FIFA was deceived into clearing them,” he said.
The Congolese Football Federation has dismissed Nigeria’s protest as an attempt to “win via the back door,” ppl maintaining that due process was followed.
FIFA has confirmed it is reviewing the matter but has not provided a timeline for a verdict. NFF Director of Communications Ademola Olajire stated that any claims suggesting a decision has already been reached are false, stressing that neither federation has received official communication.
The stakes are significant. Nigeria, bronze medallists at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, risk missing a second consecutive World Cup. DR Congo, meanwhile, are seeking a return to the tournament for the first time since 1974, when the nation competed as Zaire.
Analysts warn that a late administrative ruling could overturn results on the pitch, creating uncertainty for the teams involved and complicating the broader competition schedule. Speaking on SuperSport’s Soccer Africa programme, African football expert Mamadou Gaye urged patience, referencing a previous case involving South Africa national football team where points were deducted at a late stage.
On social media, reactions have been mixed. Some supporters argue that Nigeria should focus on upcoming competitions rather than rely on a legal reprieve, while others remain hopeful that FIFA will rule in their favour.
The delay has also drawn attention from Jamaica, whose football authorities are closely monitoring developments ahead of the scheduled intercontinental play-off in March. Officials are said to be concerned that a late decision could disrupt travel plans and tactical preparations.
For players, the prolonged wait has created uncertainty. Midfielder Alex Iwobi recently admitted the squad remains hopeful. “We are still waiting; hopefully, we can go to the World Cup,” he said.
As the countdown to the decisive play-off continues, Nigeria’s hopes of returning to the World Cup rest on FIFA’s pending verdict, leaving fans and players alike in anxious anticipation.
