In November, DR Congo defeated the Super Eagles on penalties, securing Africa’s spot in the Intercontinental Playoffs, which will determine final qualification for the tournament. However, recent claims suggest that DR Congo may be at risk of expulsion ahead of the playoffs, currently scheduled for March 2026.
According to the reports, six DR Congo players who switched nationalities allegedly failed to complete the formal eligibility process required by FIFA. Specifically, the players are said not to have formally renounced their previous citizenships — a critical issue, as DR Congo does not recognize dual nationality.
Further allegations indicate that some of the players who featured in the playoff match were over the age of 21 and held passports from other countries, potentially rendering them ineligible under FIFA regulations.
SCORENigeria reported that the petition challenging DR Congo’s eligibility is gaining traction. “The chances of the petition against DR Congo succeeding are even stronger than when South Africa were docked three points and three goals for fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho,” the report noted.
A formal petition has reportedly been submitted regarding the eligibility of several DR Congo players in the World Cup Playoffs held in Morocco. Observers have suggested that if FIFA rules in Nigeria’s favor, the Super Eagles could still secure a chance to compete in the Intercontinental Playoffs in Mexico, provided the matches have not yet been played.
For Nigerian football fans, the development has sparked renewed hope, offering the possibility of redemption after a heartbreaking playoff defeat. Football authorities and supporters are now awaiting FIFA’s decision, which could have major implications for Africa’s representation at the 2026 World Cup.