2026 World Cup: FIFA sets date to rule on Nigeria’s petition against DR Congo

FIFA will deliver its verdict on Nigeria’s eligibility protest against DR Congo on Monday, February 16.

Recall that the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF,  submitted its petition to FIFA on December 15, 2025, challenging the eligibility status of the players. FIFA has since been reviewing the matter. The NFF alleged that six Congolese players had recently switched international allegiance and were ineligible at the time of the match.

The NFF submitted the petition after Nigeria’s qualification campaign suffered a major setback in November 2025, after a 4–3 penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in the final African playoff.

Recently, the NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, said, “We have a good case.”

Sanusi also added, “We don’t go into things that would be a waste of time. We believe we have a strong case, and we are waiting for FIFA’s decision on our complaints.”

If FIFA supports Nigeria, they will be allowed to take part in the Intercontinental Play-Off tournament, which will take place in March in Mexico.

Winning a top spot in that tournament would earn Nigeria one of the remaining African spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.