FIFA has reportedly rejected Nigeria’s appeal challenging the eligibility of several DR Congo players, effectively bringing the Super Eagles’ 2026 World Cup qualification campaign to an end.
Recall that DR Congo booked their place in the intercontinental playoffs after defeating Nigeria 4–3 on penalties in the CAF playoff final played on November 16 in Rabat.
Nigeria had taken an early lead through Victor Osimhen before Cédric Bakambu equalised, forcing the match into a penalty shootout, which the Super Eagles eventually lost.
Following the defeat, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) filed a protest on December 16, alleging that up to nine DR Congo players, including Aaron Wan-Bissaka, violated FIFA regulations on dual nationality.
However, according to The Nation, FIFA dismissed the petition, stating that the NFF failed to provide sufficient evidence to substantiate the claims.
