NFF debunks reports of FIFA ruling on Nigeria’s protest against DR Congo
The Nigeria Football Federation has dismissed claims that FIFA has ruled on Nigeria’s protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo over alleged ineligible players.
Nigeria filed the complaint after losing to DR Congo on penalties in the final round of the African play-offs last November, a result that ended the Super Eagles’ hopes of reaching the intercontinental play-offs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to the NFF, some Congolese players were questioned because the country’s laws do not fully recognise dual citizenship, raising concerns about players holding European passports while representing the Leopards.
However, the federation has clarified that FIFA has not issued any verdict on the matter. NFF Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, said reports claiming that a decision has been made are false.
“There is no decision from FIFA at this time. Any claims that a ruling has been made are false. FIFA has not communicated any verdict to the NFF or the Congolese federation,” Olajire said.
The federation also warned fans to ignore fake documents circulating online that claim FIFA awarded Nigeria a 3-0 win and reinstated the Super Eagles in the qualification process.
Explaining the petition, NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi said the federation raised concerns about the documents submitted by DR Congo to FIFA.
“As far as FIFA is concerned, once you have the passport of your country, you are eligible. But our concern is that FIFA may have been deceived into clearing them,” Sanusi said.
DR Congo has rejected Nigeria’s claims and urged the Super Eagles to accept the result. The Congolese FA, through Director of Football Hérita Ilunga, said FIFA rules on sporting nationality, not domestic citizenship laws, determine player eligibility.
