FIFA sanctions Nigeria, DR Congo over 2026 World Cup play-off clash

Nigeria’s hopes of securing a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup have suffered another setback after the world football governing body FIFA sanctioned Nigeria and the DR Congo following disciplinary incidents during their qualifying play-off match in November 2025.

Nigeria’s campaign had already been dealt a major blow after the Super Eagles lost to DR Congo on penalties in the final round of the African qualifying play-offs.

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NFF Petition Over Player Eligibility

Following that defeat, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) lodged a formal petition with FIFA questioning the eligibility of several DR Congo players.

Nigeria filed the complaint after the play-off defeat, alleging that the Congolese Football Federation misled FIFA by securing nationality switches for several overseas-born players.

The petition, submitted on December 15, 2025, asked FIFA to investigate the matter and potentially disqualify DR Congo from the qualification process.

FIFA Disciplinary Action

However, according to FIFA’s latest disciplinary overview for the World Cup qualifiers, both federations were found guilty of separate infractions during the match played on November 16, 2025.

FIFA said Nigeria was penalised for breaches relating to order and security at matches after spectators were found guilty of throwing objects during the game. The offence falls under Article 17 and Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, resulting in a fine of 1,000 Swiss francs for the NFF.

The DR Congo federation received a heavier sanction after supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match. The act violates Article 17.2.d of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, resulting in a fine of 5,000 Swiss francs.

Awaiting FIFA Verdict

The sanctions have heightened expectations around FIFA’s anticipated verdict on the NFF’s protest over the alleged use of ineligible players by DR Congo during the African play-offs, particularly in the decisive final match.

If FIFA rules in favour of Nigeria, the result of the play-off could be overturned, potentially disqualifying the DR Congo and granting the Super Eagles another route into the 2026 World Cup qualification process.

For Nigeria, the wait for the FIFA Disciplinary Committee to deliver its final ruling continues.