The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has clarified that reports claiming Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup hopes are over are misleading, stating that FIFA has not issued any new communication regarding the nation’s pending eligibility dispute involving DR Congo.
NFF Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire disclosed on Wednesday that the federation is still awaiting formal word from FIFA. “The NFF has not received any official communication from FIFA. No information can be shared with journalists without first coming to the federations involved,” he said. “Yes, our wait is ongoing. We are still expecting formal communication from FIFA. Let those posting old quotes continue posting them.”
The clarification comes after several media outlets ran breaking news claiming FIFA had confirmed DR Congo as Africa’s representative in the inter-confederation play-off tournament, effectively ending Nigeria’s World Cup dream. These reports were based on a FIFA statement published on November 18, 2025 — three months prior — which listed Bolivia, DR Congo, Iraq, Jamaica, New Caledonia, and Suriname as qualifiers, predating Nigeria’s formal protest.
The dispute dates back to November 2025, when DR Congo defeated Nigeria on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the CAF play-off final. The NFF lodged a complaint in December, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players, including former England youth internationals Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe, in violation of Congolese law and FIFA eligibility rules.
NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi stressed the federation’s position, noting that Congolese law prohibits dual nationality, yet some players hold European passports. “Our contention is that FIFA was deceived into clearing them,” he said. The Congolese Football Federation, meanwhile, dismissed the protest as an attempt to “win via the back door.”
FIFA has confirmed it is reviewing the matter but has provided no timeline for a decision. With the inter-confederation play-offs set for March 26–31 in Guadalajara and Monterrey, Mexico, DR Congo is slated to face either Jamaica or New Caledonia. The delay has caused operational concerns, with both Jamaica and New Caledonia reportedly warning that a late ruling could disrupt travel and preparations.
Nigeria, bronze medallists at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, could miss a second consecutive World Cup if the protest is not resolved in their favour. Star players including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi were expected to feature at the tournament.
African football expert Mamadou Gaye urged fans to remain patient, citing a similar last-minute points adjustment involving South Africa. “We should wait for FIFA to make the decision. Nigeria should remain calm and prepared,” he said.
For now, the NFF maintains a clear stance: no new verdict has been delivered, the protest remains active, and Nigeria’s World Cup hopes are still alive.
