The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has moved to silence spreading rumors regarding a purported FIFA decision on Nigeria’s legal challenge against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Following widespread social media speculation, the federation clarified on Tuesday that the world football governing body has yet to issue a formal ruling. The dispute stems from the Super Eagles’ painful elimination last November, where a penalty shootout defeat to the Leopards ended Nigeria’s direct path to the 2026 World Cup.
Shortly after that exit, the NFF filed a comprehensive petition with FIFA’s disciplinary committee, targeting the eligibility of several Congolese players. The Nigerian legal argument centers on the strict domestic laws of the DRC, which do not recognize dual citizenship for adults. The NFF contends that multiple players featured in the playoff held European passports at the time of the match, potentially violating international registration protocols if they had not formally renounced their other nationalities.
“There is no decision from FIFA at this time. Any claims that a ruling has been made are false. FIFA has not communicated any verdict to the NFF or the Congolese federation,” stated Ademola Olajire, the NFF’s Director of Communications, in a clarifying interview with 234Sports.
The federation cautioned fans and journalists against believing fabricated documents that claim FIFA already awarded Nigeria a 3-0 victory. While the NFF maintains confidence in its evidentiary submission, officials emphasized that the case remains under active review in Zurich. Nigeria hopes a favorable outcome will reinstate the three-time African champions and allow them to compete in the high-stakes Intercontinental Play-Off tournament scheduled for Mexico this March.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has consistently denied any wrongdoing, urging the Super Eagles to accept the results achieved on the pitch. However, NFF leadership continues to monitor the situation closely, as the winner of this administrative battle will face the winner of the Jamaica versus New Caledonia tie for a final ticket to the North American showpiece. For now, the Nigerian football community remains in a state of expectant waiting, with the NFF promising to announce the official verdict immediately upon receipt.
About the Author
