NFF Petitions FIFA As Super Eagles’ World Cup Hope Rekindles
By FRED LONGJOHN OBEH
NIGERIA’S hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been revived after the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) formally petitioned FIFA over alleged player eligibility breaches by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). The Super Eagles were knocked out of the African playoffs in November after a penalty shootout defeat, but new questions have emerged surrounding the eligibility of players fielded by DR Congo.
Reports indicate that up to six Congolese players may not have completed the required nationality switch process under FIFA regulations. The NFF alleges that some of the players failed to formally renounce their previous citizenships, a key requirement under Congolese law, which does not permit dual nationality. Concerns have also been raised over players holding European passports and being above the age threshold allowed for eligibility changes.
NFF Secretary General, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, confirmed that a formal complaint has been submitted to FIFA, insisting that the federation believes FIFA was misled by documents supplied by DR Congo. He explained that while FIFA cleared the players based on the paperwork presented, Nigeria maintains that the process was fraudulent.
The case is now under FIFA’s review, with the possibility that Nigeria could be reinstated for the Intercontinental Playoffs in March 2026 in Mexico if the petition is upheld. The development has reignited optimism among Nigerian fans, who are now awaiting FIFA’s final decision.
