NFF challenges FIFA ruling over DR Congo player eligibility dispute

The Nigeria Football Federation has officially launched an appeal after FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee threw out its complaint over the eligibility of several DR Congo players in last year’s crucial World Cup playoff final.

The match, played on 16 November 2025 at the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, ended 1-1 after extra time before DR Congo edged Nigeria in a sudden-death penalty shootout.

NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi confirmed the next steps being taken by the federation. He stated: “We have received FIFA’s decision, but we are not satisfied. We have immediately commenced the appeal process.” Nigeria’s original petition questioned the validity of passports issued to some DR Congo players and argued that they should not have been eligible to feature in the playoff fixtures.

By pressing ahead with the appeal, the NFF is seeking a full review of the case and hoping for a different verdict from FIFA’s higher judicial bodies. The outcome could have major implications for both federations, coming in the build-up to the 2026 World Cup and amid ongoing scrutiny of player documentation and eligibility rules across international football.