Nigeria’s World Cup Hope Revived Amid DR Congo Eligibility Row

Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have received a boost following allegations that DR Congo may have fielded ineligible players in their playoff victory over the Super Eagles in November.

Reports have emerged suggesting that up to six DR Congo players who switched national allegiance may not have completed the required eligibility process, potentially breaching FIFA regulations. The allegations claim that the players failed to formally renounce their previous citizenships, a key requirement as DR Congo does not recognize dual nationality.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has formally protested to FIFA, challenging the eligibility of certain DR Congo players. NFF Secretary General, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, stated that the protest is based on alleged violations of FIFA’s rules on nationality, citing specific players who may have held European passports and were over 21 years old.

Sanusi explained that FIFA initially cleared the players based on information provided, but Nigeria believes that process may have been compromised. “We’re saying that FIFA was deceived into clearing them,” Sanusi said, adding that the NFF is awaiting FIFA’s decision.

If FIFA rules in Nigeria’s favour, the Super Eagles could be reinstated into contention for the Intercontinental Playoffs in Mexico, scheduled for March 2026, provided the matches have not already been played.