World football governing body, FIFA, is set to rule on Monday on a petition lodged by Nigeria against Democratic Republic of Congo over the alleged use of ineligible players, a decision that could alter the final outcome of Africa’s World Cup qualification race.
The matter is scheduled for deliberation at FIFA’s February 16 meeting, where several agenda items will be considered, including the formal complaint filed by the Nigeria Football Federation. A favourable verdict could return the Super Eagles to the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico later this month, where one of the last World Cup tickets will be decided.
The federation’s protest centres on claims that six Congolese players were not eligible during last year’s African play-offs for the 2026 World Cup, a contest Nigeria lost on penalties in Morocco. Officials maintain that the submission followed proper procedures and was backed by documentary and legal evidence.
NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, said the federation would not have proceeded with the petition without strong confidence in its case, stressing that due process was observed throughout.
The case has also attracted attention within African football circles, with reports noting the involvement of Confederation of African Football leadership and its Secretary General, Veron Mosengo-Omba, who is widely regarded as an ally of FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Both countries are reportedly prepared to take the dispute to the Court of Arbitration for Sport if the ruling goes against them, prompting careful review of the case to avoid wider controversy.
