World Cup Playoff Dispute: Malaysia Case Strengthens Nigeria’s Claim Against DR Congo

World Cup Playoff Dispute: Malaysia Case Strengthens Nigeria’s Claim Against DR Congo

By Admin 

Nigeria’s prospects of securing a favorable ruling from FIFA over its petition against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) have received a significant boost following the world football governing body’s recent sanctions against Malaysia for fielding ineligible players.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had approached FIFA after the Super Eagles were eliminated by DR Congo on penalties in the final African playoff for a place in the six-nation Intercontinental Playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The decisive match was played in Morocco in November, 2025.

Nigeria’s petition alleges that DR Congo fielded five ineligible players who held dual citizenship, contrary to the country’s constitution, which prohibits citizens from possessing passports of other nations. The NFF further claimed that the documentation used to secure clearance for the players was improperly obtained.

FIFA’s recent ruling against Malaysia has strengthened Nigeria’s case. 

The world football body fined the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and overturned the results of several international friendly matches, awarding 3–0 defeats to Malaysia after it was discovered that seven naturalised players had used falsified documentation. The scandal subsequently led to the resignation of the entire FAM executive committee.

Citing the Malaysia case, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s petition, describing it as strong and well-founded.

FIFA is expected to deliver its verdict on the Nigeria–DR Congo case in the coming weeks, ahead of the Intercontinental Playoffs scheduled to take place in March.

The Super Eagles, who finished third at the recently concluded 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, have earned widespread praise for their performances. Their fluid and disciplined style of play drew comparisons with Nigeria’s celebrated 1994 squad, prompting surprise among football observers that such a team could miss out on the expanded 2026 World Cup finals, to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.