Nigeria has lodged a formal complaint with FIFA, accusing the Democratic Republic of Congo of fielding ineligible players in a crucial 2026 World Cup playoff match. The Super Eagles are seeking to overturn the outcome of the tie, which saw DR Congo advance to the intercontinental qualifiers. This move casts a shadow over DR Congo’s participation and Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the global tournament.

The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) claims that several Congolese players, including those who featured prominently in the playoff final held in Morocco, should not have been allowed to play. Their argument centers on the principle of dual nationality, which Nigeria contends is not permitted under Congolese law. This alleged violation of FIFA regulations forms the core of Nigeria’s protest.

Specifically, the NFF points to players who have recently switched their international allegiance to represent DR Congo, asserting that their existing European and French passports create a conflict. The federation believes FIFA was misled into approving these players’ eligibility. NFF general secretary Mohammed Sanusi stated their contention is that FIFA was deceived, highlighting a perceived breach of international football’s governing body regulations.

The Congolese Football Federation (Fecofa) has vehemently denied Nigeria’s allegations, dismissing the complaint as an unsportsmanlike attempt to gain an advantage through unofficial channels. Fecofa’s official social media channels characterized the petition as an effort to “win via the back door” and accused Nigeria of being “bad losers.”

Fecofa’s stance suggests that the players in question have met all necessary FIFA eligibility criteria, and that Nigeria’s claims are unfounded. The federation emphasized that the World Cup should be contested with integrity and fair play, rather than through legalistic maneuvers. This public rebuttal sets the stage for a potentially lengthy and contentious review process by FIFA.

The NFF insists it has provided FIFA with comprehensive supporting documentation and legal arguments to substantiate its claims. FIFA has been contacted for comment, and the football world awaits its decision on this significant protest. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for both nations’ World Cup aspirations and the integrity of international football eligibility rules.

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Keywords: Nigeria DR Congo World Cup fraud, FIFA eligibility rules, Super Eagles World Cup hopes, DR Congo ineligible players, World Cup playoff controversy, African World Cup qualifiers, NFF FIFA complaint, football dual nationality laws