NFF Says FIFA Still Reviewing DR Congo Eligibility Petition

The Nigeria Football Federation has insisted that FIFA has not taken any decision on its petition challenging the eligibility of some Democratic Republic of Congo players used during the 2026 World Cup African play-off clash, saying the matter remains under review.

The NFF was reacting to reports claiming the world football body had rejected Nigeria’s appeal after the Super Eagles’ 4–3 penalty defeat to DR Congo following a 1–1 draw in November.

Speaking on the issue, Secretary General Dr Mohammed Sanusi said no official communication had been received from FIFA. “The Nigeria Football Federation wrote a petition to FIFA on the eligibility of some of the players of DR Congo… if there is anything, FIFA will reply to the NFF,” he said.

Sanusi added that the NFF had checked its emails and found “no letter from FIFA,” adding, “I don’t know where they got their information from…”

Nigeria’s petition argues that players including Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe should not have been cleared because Congolese law does not allow dual nationality. Sanusi said FIFA was “deceived… it is fraudulent.” pending.