Nigeria Awaits FIFA February Verdict In DR Congo Eligibility Dispute

Nigeria Awaits FIFA February Verdict In DR Congo Eligibility Dispute

By Our Reporter 

Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup remain alive, amid continued uncertainty surrounding an eligibility case involving the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), BSNSports.com.ng reports.

As of 25 January 2026, investigations indicate that the petition submitted by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to FIFA over DR Congo’s alleged use of ineligible players during the World Cup qualifying playoffs is still under active review. Contrary to widespread speculation, the case has neither been dismissed nor any decision being concluded by FIFA.

The petition reportedly centres on six DR Congo players whose eligibility during the playoff phase has been questioned by the NFF. Although online reports have suggested that FIFA quietly threw out the complaint, while some reported that Nigeria would be favoured to replace DR Congo, however, sources close to the process maintain that these information are inaccurate. FIFA is expected to reach a final decision in February 2026 when official statements would be released.

The ruling could prove pivotal. DR Congo are scheduled to contest a decisive playoff in March 2026 against the winner of the intercontinental tie between Jamaica and New Caledonia, with the victor securing the final World Cup slot. Any adverse decision against DR Congo before that fixture could significantly alter the qualification scenario.

Further complicating the picture are unverified claims that emerged following the controversial AFCON 2025 final between Senegal and host nation Morocco. Some reports have speculated about potential sanctions against Senegal, including a possible World Cup ban, with Nigeria cited as a beneficiary. However, these claims remain speculative and lack official confirmation.

At present, Nigeria’s most realistic route back into contention hinges on FIFA’s verdict in the DR Congo eligibility case. Until an official ruling is issued, the Super Eagles’ World Cup fate remains uncertain—but not extinguished.

With February approaching, attention is firmly fixed on FIFA’s decision, which could yet reshape Africa’s final World Cup qualification picture.