Eligibility Dispute: DR Congo Misled FIFA In Player Clearance Process - NFF

Eligibility Dispute: DR Congo Misled FIFA In Player Clearance Process - NFF 

By Niyi Busari 

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed that it has submitted a formal petition to FIFA over the alleged use of ineligible players by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) during their decisive clash with Nigeria in the CAF playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Nigeria’s qualification hopes have been revived after FIFA opened an investigation into the eligibility of several DR Congo players who featured in the playoff final, which the Super Eagles lost on penalties. The match determined Africa’s representative for the intercontinental playoff, and the result is now under review following allegations of regulatory breaches.

Speaking on the matter, NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, said FIFA may have been misled by the DR Congo Football Association during the player clearance process.

“FIFA was deceived into clearing those players because it is not FIFA’s responsibility to interpret or enforce domestic citizenship laws,” Sanusi said. “DR Congo law does not permit dual citizenship, yet some of the players involved reportedly hold dual nationality.”

According to the NFF, FIFA approved the players based on documentation and assurances provided by the DR Congo federation, as FIFA regulations allow players to represent a country if they hold a valid passport. However, Nigeria’s complaint alleges that the clearance process itself may have been fraudulent, given potential conflicts with Congolese nationality laws.

“It is not FIFA’s duty to know the domestic laws of every country,” Sanusi added. “That is why we formally drew FIFA’s attention to the issue and we are now awaiting their verdict.”

The investigation is believed to centre on up to nine DR Congo players who allegedly switched national allegiance without fully completing the legal and administrative requirements stipulated by both Congolese law and FIFA statutes.

While possession of a passport is a key requirement under FIFA rules, it does not automatically guarantee eligibility. Players must also comply with domestic legal provisions and FIFA’s regulations governing changes of association.

Reports indicate that some of the affected players may not have finalised the necessary processes before representing DR Congo in the qualifiers.

FIFA is understood to be examining the matter closely, with possible outcomes ranging from match forfeiture to other disciplinary measures, depending on the findings. A complete disqualification from international competition remains unlikely but has not been ruled out.

Should DR Congo be sanctioned, the NFF says it is unclear whether Nigeria would automatically advance to the intercontinental playoff in Mexico or be required to contest another qualifying match.

Nigeria, meanwhile, remains on standby as it awaits FIFA’s final decision on the case.