FIFA Official Confirms Wan-Bissaka Was Eligible to Play for DR Congo in Playoff Win Over Nigeria
A FIFA official has dismissed rumours that DR Congo could be disqualified for fielding Aaron Wan-Bissaka in the 2025 CAF World Cup Playoff final against Nigeria.
DR Congo defeated the Super Eagles 4–3 on penalties after a 1–1 draw in Morocco, booking their place in the 2026 Intercontinental Playoff in Mexico. Shortly after the match, reports began circulating online claiming that FIFA was reviewing the right-back’s eligibility.
However, a senior FIFA official told BSN Sports the rumours were false, saying: “We have not received any protest or official complaint from any federation.” He added: “There is absolutely no discussion regarding DR Congo’s disqualification. The player in question has been eligible to represent DR Congo prior to the playoff match.”
Wan-Bissaka was born in England to Congolese parents and first represented DR Congo at U20 level in 2015. He went on to play for England’s youth teams but never made a senior appearance for the Three Lions, leaving the door open for a switch.
In June 2025, he accepted a call-up for DR Congo friendlies, and on 22 August 2025 FIFA approved his request for a one-time nationality switch. He made his senior debut for the Leopards in a World Cup qualifier against South Sudan on 5 September 2025.
With FIFA’s approval issued months before the playoff, officials say there is no basis for any challenge to his involvement.
When asked whether Nigeria had filed or planned to file a protest, NFF Secretary General Sanusi Mohammed declined to comment.
