The Nigeria Football Federation has begun an appeal process after FIFA rejected its protest over the eligibility of DR Congo players in a 2026 World Cup playoff match.
The Nigeria Football Federation has commenced an appeal against a decision by FIFA rejecting its petition over the eligibility of Democratic Republic of the Congo players in the 2026 World Cup playoff. The protest had alleged irregularities in passport issuance involving some Congolese players fielded during the match.
The playoff encounter, held in Rabat, Morocco, ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time, with DR Congo eventually securing victory through sudden-death penalties in the African playoff final. FIFA, in an official communication to the NFF, dismissed Nigeria’s protest, a decision the federation confirmed on Tuesday in Abuja.
Reacting to the development, NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi said the federation was dissatisfied with the ruling and would pursue the matter further through FIFA’s appellate process. “We respect FIFA but firmly disagree with this decision. We believe there are strong grounds for appeal and will present additional evidence,” Sanusi said. He added, “Our duty is to defend Nigeria’s interest. We cannot overlook issues that may compromise transparency and credibility in such an important match. We expect the appeals process to be thorough and fair. Our objective is not conflict, but clarity and adherence to the rules governing global football.”
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