Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been reignited following fresh claims that DR Congo may have breached FIFA eligibility rules during the decisive African playoffs.
The Super Eagles had earlier suffered a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in November, a result that appeared to shut the door on Nigeria’s World Cup ambitions. However, new developments suggest that the story may not be over yet.
What Happened in the World Cup Playoffs?
DR Congo edged Nigeria on penalties to secure Africa’s slot for the Intercontinental Playoffs, the final phase of qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The loss sparked widespread disappointment among Nigerian fans, given the Super Eagles’ strong performances leading up to the playoffs. But attention has now shifted away from the pitch to the rulebooks.
DR Congo Facing Eligibility Allegations
According to reports, a formal petition has been submitted to FIFA questioning the eligibility of several DR Congo players who featured in the playoff match against Nigeria.
The allegations include:
- Nationality switch irregularities
At least six players who reportedly changed national allegiance are said not to have completed the full FIFA-approved eligibility process. - Dual citizenship concerns
DR Congo does not officially recognise dual nationality. Reports claim some players failed to formally renounce their previous citizenships, a key requirement under FIFA statutes. - Passport and age-related issues
Additional claims suggest that some players who featured may have held foreign passports or exceeded age limits applicable to their registration status.
If proven, these violations could attract severe sanctions.
Why Nigeria’s Case Is Strong
Football analysts believe the petition against DR Congo carries weight. SCORENigeria reported that the case may be stronger than the one that saw South Africa docked points and goals after fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho in a previous FIFA competition.
A source was quoted as saying: “The chances of the petition against DR Congo succeeding are even stronger than previous cases where FIFA imposed sanctions for similar violations.”
How Nigeria Can Still Qualify for the 2026 World Cup
For the Super Eagles to regain a place on the World Cup qualification path, the following conditions must be met:
- FIFA must uphold the petition against DR Congo.
- Sanctions must be applied before the Intercontinental Playoffs are concluded.
- Nigeria could then be reinstated into the playoff position vacated by DR Congo.
Crucially, reports indicate that the Intercontinental Playoffs in Mexico have not yet been played, meaning Nigeria’s chances remain alive.
FIFA’s Track Record on Eligibility Violations
FIFA has consistently enforced strict compliance with eligibility regulations. Across Africa and other continents, teams have previously been punished for:
- Improper nationality switches
- Use of ineligible or overage players
- Documentation and registration breaches
If the allegations against DR Congo are confirmed, FIFA is expected to act to protect the integrity of the competition.
What This Means for Nigerian Football Fans
For millions of Nigerians, this development has restored belief that the Super Eagles’ World Cup journey is not yet finished. While nothing is guaranteed, the renewed hope is grounded in FIFA rules rather than speculation.
Until a final ruling is delivered, Nigeria remains firmly in contention.Nigeria’s path to the 2026 World Cup may have taken an unexpected turn, but it is far from closed. With serious eligibility questions now surrounding DR Congo, the Super Eagles could yet find themselves back in the race — this time through due process.
