Nigeria’s prospects for qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have received a significant boost amid allegations of player eligibility violations by DR Congo. The development follows DR Congo’s penalty shootout victory over Nigeria in November’s playoff stage.
Reports indicate up to six DR Congo players may have breached FIFA regulations. They allegedly failed to properly renounce previous citizenships before representing DR Congo. This violates rules since DR Congo prohibits dual nationality.
Further questions surround players who featured in the playoff match while holding European passports despite being over age 21. Such circumstances potentially contravene FIFA’s eligibility requirements.
Nigeria’s Formal Protest
NFF Secretary General Dr Mohammed Sanusi confirmed Nigeria has submitted an official protest to FIFA. He stated: “We’re challenging eligibility based on alleged FIFA rule violations. Congo forbids dual citizenship yet players like Wan-Bissaka hold European passports.”
Sanusi explained FIFA’s initial clearance relied on submitted documentation. “FIFA cleared them based on provided information. But we contend FIFA was deceived through fraudulent submissions,” he emphasized.
A favorable FIFA ruling could reinstate Nigeria’s position in the Intercontinental Playoffs. This depends on matches not having been played before any potential sanctions against DR Congo.
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