ABUJA – The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has moved swiftly to dismiss widespread reports claiming that FIFA has disqualified DR Congo and reinstated Nigeria into the 2026 World Cup qualification process.
Social media was set ablaze over the weekend with reports suggesting the world football governing body had ruled in Nigeria’s favour, awarding the Super Eagles a 3-0 walkover win due to the alleged fielding of ineligible players by the Leopards. The viral claims further suggested that Nigeria had been fast-tracked into the six-team Intercontinental Playoffs scheduled for March 2026.
However, NFF Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, clarified on Tuesday that no such verdict has been received from FIFA. He described the reports as “false and misleading,” urging fans to disregard the speculation until an official statement is issued.
The confusion stems from a formal protest lodged by the NFF on December 15, 2025. Nigeria challenged the eligibility of several DR Congo players—including high-profile names like Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe—following the Super Eagles’ heartbreaking 4-3 penalty shootout loss in the African playoff final in November.
While the petition remains under review at FIFA’s headquarters in Zurich, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau confirmed that the federation is still awaiting a definitive ruling. “We have provided all necessary documentation regarding the status of the players in question. As of this moment, we are in a waiting period,” Gusau stated.
As it stands, DR Congo remains the qualified representative for the Intercontinental Playoffs in Mexico, where they are slated to compete for one of the final slots at the 2026 showpiece. Nigeria’s hopes of a “backdoor” entry depend entirely on a successful disciplinary ruling, which legal experts suggest remains a difficult hurdle to clear.
For now, the Super Eagles remain on the sidelines, with the footballing world watching closely for FIFA’s final word on the matter.
