Nigeria’s football fraternity is growing increasingly restless as FIFA continues to delay a decision on the eligibility of players used by DR Congo in last November’s Africa 2026 World Cup play-off — a ruling that could yet hand the Super Eagles a dramatic route back into contention.
The dispute, lodged by the Nigeria Football Federation in December, centres on claims that several DR Congo players — including Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe — may have been ineligible under Congolese law, which reportedly does not permit dual citizenship.
DR Congo defeated Nigeria on penalties to reach an intercontinental play-off against either Jamaica or New Caledonia. However, the NFF argues that the Leopards breached FIFA regulations by fielding players who allegedly hold European passports alongside Congolese nationality.
NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi has insisted that Congolese law bars dual nationality, alleging that FIFA may have been misled in clearing the players. In response, the Congolese Football Federation dismissed the complaint as an attempt to “win via the back door.”
FIFA has acknowledged that the case is under review but has not given a timeline for a verdict. NFF Director of Communications Ademola Olajire stressed that no ruling has been communicated to either federation.
The implications are significant. Nigeria, bronze medallists at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, risk missing a second straight World Cup. DR Congo, meanwhile, are seeking their first appearance at the tournament since 1974, when the nation competed as Zaire.
Observers caution that a late administrative ruling could overturn results decided on the pitch, potentially disrupting the broader competition calendar. African football analyst Mamadou Gaye, speaking on SuperSport’s Soccer Africa programme, urged patience among Nigerian supporters, citing past instances where FIFA rulings were delivered long after matches were played.
The prolonged silence has fuelled heated debate online. Some fans argue Nigeria should focus on upcoming competitions rather than cling to hope, while others believe the country’s World Cup dream is already over. A few remain cautiously optimistic but advocate shifting attention to the next Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
The uncertainty is also affecting Jamaica, whose football authorities are monitoring developments ahead of the scheduled March intercontinental play-off. Officials are said to be concerned that a last-minute decision could disrupt travel plans, training camps, and tactical preparations. Both Jamaica and DR Congo remain in limbo as FIFA’s review drags on.
Supporters continue to debate the legal and sporting dimensions of the case. Some argue that if Congolese law indeed prohibits dual nationality, FIFA must act accordingly. Others point to Nigeria’s global football profile — bolstered by stars such as Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi — as a factor that could shape the broader narrative surrounding the decision.
For the players, the uncertainty has created tension. Iwobi recently admitted the squad is still waiting and hoping for clarity on their World Cup fate.
As the countdown to the intercontinental play-off continues, Nigeria’s prospects remain uncertain. In the coming weeks, FIFA’s ruling will determine whether the Super Eagles are granted a lifeline to the 2026 World Cup — or see their campaign concluded off the field despite the drama already settled on it.
