World Cup: All you need to know as FIFA rules on Nigeria’s petition against DR Congo

Eagles

Nigerians continue to await the verdict of world football governing body, FIFA, over a petition submitted by the Nigeria Football Federation, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during last November’s 2025 World Cup African play-offs.

FIFA’s decision, earlier reported to be announced after the body’s meeting on Monday, has yet to be released and is now expected on Tuesday (today).

African football fans, especially Nigerians, continue to await the ruling, given that the outcome could potentially reinstate the Super Eagles into the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico later this month, where one of the last World Cup tickets is on offer.

PUNCH Online outlines key things to know about the case.

The match in question

In November 2025, Nigeria’s Super Eagles lost to DR Congo 4–3 on penalties in the African play-off final for 2026 World Cup qualification, ending their chances of qualifying for the tournament.

Nigeria’s protest

The NFF filed a formal complaint with FIFA in December 2025, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players who recently switched nationalities.

Key players accused

Nigeria claims several DR Congo players, including Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe, hold dual nationalities, potentially violating eligibility rules.

DR Congo’s nationality law

The core argument hinges on DR Congo’s constitution, which reportedly prohibits dual citizenship. Nigeria argues that DR Congo’s fielding of players with dual citizenship conflicts with FIFA’s player eligibility and nationality-switch procedures.