Nigerians are still awaiting a decision from FIFA after the global football body deferred judgement on a petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) against DR Congo over alleged player ineligibility during the CAF play-off final for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The petition claims that at least six DR Congo players who featured in the decisive fixture were ineligible due to recent changes in their nationality.
Read Also: Nigerians react as FIFA decides on Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup fate today
Millions of Nigerians had anxiously awaited a ruling on Monday, February 16, hoping for clarity on the Super Eagles’ qualification hopes. However, several reports indicate that FIFA has yet to issue any official pronouncement.
NFF Dismisses ‘Fake’ Verdict Claims
Nigeria lost the play-off final 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in Rabat, Morocco. In the aftermath, the NFF formally requested that FIFA disqualify DR Congo for allegedly fielding players with dual nationalities in contravention of eligibility regulations.
Despite widespread expectations of a verdict, the NFF has moved swiftly to dismiss circulating rumours and purported “fake documents” suggesting that a decision had already been reached. Nigerians are now closely monitoring official channels for updates that could potentially revive the Super Eagles’ 2026 World Cup campaign.
Amid speculative reports of a 3-0 “boardroom victory” for Nigeria on social media, NFF Director of Communications Dr. Ademola Olajire issued a firm clarification.
“There is no decision from FIFA at this moment,” Olajire stated. “Any claims that a ruling has been made are false and misleading. FIFA has not communicated any verdict to the NFF or the Congolese federation.”
Federation Officials Remain Optimistic
NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi expressed confidence in the federation’s case.
“We have a good case,” Sanusi said. “We do not venture into what would be an exercise in futility. As far as we are concerned, we have a strong case, and we are awaiting FIFA’s decision on the complaints we have lodged.”
NFF President Ibrahim Gusau also maintained optimism, saying, “We are still waiting to hear from FIFA. We are hopeful, by the grace of God.”
Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi echoed that sentiment: “We are still waiting; hopefully, we can go to the World Cup.”
For now, the wait continues; a favourable ruling could significantly reshape Nigeria’s qualification prospects, potentially reinstating the Super Eagles into the intercontinental play-offs and reopening a pathway to the 2026 World Cup.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
