FIFA has officially confirmed DR Congo as Africa’s representative in the inter-confederation play-off tournament for the 2026 World Cup, effectively ending Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the global showpiece.
In its latest communication outlining the structure and participants for the play-off tournament, FIFA listed DR Congo among the six nations set to compete for the final two slots at the 2026 tournament. The announcement leaves no room for Nigeria, whose football authorities had been seeking a reversal of their earlier elimination.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had filed a protest challenging the outcome of the CAF play-off tie decided in November 2025. Nigeria drew 1–1 with DR Congo before losing on penalties, but the NFF alleged that their opponents fielded ineligible players during the encounter. The appeal aimed to overturn the result and secure Nigeria’s place in the inter-confederation play-offs.
However, FIFA’s confirmation of DR Congo in the final list of qualified teams indicates that the governing body will not amend the outcome of the tie. No reference was made to any ongoing review or disciplinary adjustment, signaling that the original result stands.
The inter-confederation play-off tournament will feature six teams battling for the remaining two spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
With this development, Nigeria’s hopes of participating in the expanded 2026 edition have officially been dashed, while DR Congo now prepares to compete for a place on football’s biggest stage.
