Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are fading as FIFA reviews the eligibility dispute involving DR Congo.
The controversy stems from the African playoff final in November 2025, where DR Congo eliminated the Super Eagles on penalties after a tightly contested match. Following the loss, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) filed a formal complaint with FIFA, claiming that several DR Congo players may have been ineligible due to recent nationality changes. (soccernet.ng)
The NFF’s argument centres on whether the players in question met FIFA’s rules for switching national teams, a process that requires clear documentation and a waiting period before representing a new country. Nigeria argued that DR Congo failed to comply fully with those regulations.
Despite the ongoing protest, FIFA has not yet overturned the result or issued a final ruling. Meanwhile, DR Congo has already been listed to play in the intercontinental playoff, a stage that puts them one step closer to the global finals. (soccernet.ng)
Analysts suggest that with time running out and no decisive response from FIFA, the Super Eagles’ hopes of overturning the result and securing a World Cup spot appear increasingly slim.
For now, Nigerian supporters remain hopeful that FIFA will complete its review and provide clarity on the case.
