FIFA has rejected the petition by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) challenging the eligibility of certain Democratic Republic of Congo players in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoff final.

The ruling confirms DR Congo’s place in the intercontinental playoffs, leaving Nigeria’s World Cup hopes in jeopardy.

The NFF had filed the petition days after the November 16, 2025, match in Rabat, Morocco, citing irregularities in the issuance of passports that allowed some DR Congo players to participate.

The match itself ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time at the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium, with DR Congo eventually winning in a sudden-death penalty shootout.

EXPLAINER: Why Nigeria won't inherit DR Congo's World Cup slot despite petition

Reacting to FIFA’s decision, NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi expressed disappointment but vowed to continue the fight.

“We have received the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee on our petition, but we are not satisfied with the ruling. The NFF has immediately commenced the process of appealing,” he said.

The rejection marks a bitter setback for the Super Eagles, who had hoped the appeal could overturn the playoff defeat.



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