FIFA’s delayed ruling on DR Congo player eligibility leaves Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes uncertain, drawing frustration from fans and players alike.
FIFA has yet to issue a verdict on Nigeria’s protest regarding the eligibility of DR Congo players fielded during last November’s Africa 2026 World Cup play-off. The Nigeria Football Federation alleges some Congolese players, including Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe, violated national laws banning dual citizenship, potentially breaching FIFA rules. The Congolese Football Federation dismissed the claims as attempts to overturn the on-field result, while FIFA continues its review without a timeline for resolution.
The delay has sparked frustration among Nigerian fans and players, raising uncertainty ahead of intercontinental play-offs and affecting teams such as Jamaica preparing for upcoming matches. Experts caution that FIFA’s disciplinary processes can be protracted, and the outcome could dramatically influence Nigeria’s chances of returning to the World Cup stage after missing the 2022 edition.
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