FIFA Playoff Verdict: Gaye Raises Nigeria Hopes, Cites South Africa Precedent

FIFA Playoff Verdict: Gaye Raises Nigeria Hopes, Cites South Africa Precedent

By Niyi Busari 

African football analyst Mamadou Gaye has called for patience as Nigeria awaits a decision from FIFA regarding its protest against the Democratic Republic of the Congo national football team following their African playoff final for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Nigeria national football team were beaten in a penalty shootout by the Leopards but subsequently lodged a formal complaint, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players, including Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

With fewer than three weeks remaining before the next international window, FIFA has yet to issue a ruling, leaving supporters, players and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in a state of uncertainty. Nigeria hopes that a favorable outcome could revive its path toward qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Speaking on SuperSport’s Soccer Africa programme, Gaye referenced a recent precedent involving South Africa national soccer team. Bafana Bafana were docked three points in the qualifiers after FIFA ruled that midfielder Teboho Mokoena was ineligible. The decision was delivered shortly before the final round of Group C matches.

“Let’s wait for FIFA to make the decision. You remember the points taken away from Bafana Bafana were done at the last minute,” Gaye said.

Meanwhile, the NFF has confirmed friendly fixtures against Iran national football team and Jordan national football team next month — both nations having secured qualification for the World Cup. The friendlies are scheduled to coincide with the intercontinental playoff window.

Gaye emphasized that Nigeria’s protest should follow due process, noting that any party dissatisfied with FIFA’s ruling retains the right to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Should FIFA rule in favor of DR Congo, the Leopards will face the winner of the playoff between New Caledonia national football team and Jamaica national football team, with a place at the 2026 World Cup at stake.