FIFA is set to deliver a verdict on Nigeria’s formal protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) following their recent World Cup qualifiers play-off clash.
The Super Eagles filed the complaint after DR Congo eliminated Nigeria on penalties to secure Africa’s spot in the intercontinental play-offs. Nigeria’s protest centers on allegations that DR Congo fielded players who may not have been eligible to represent the country under its national laws.
According to the complaint, some of the Congolese players allegedly hold dual nationality, a situation Nigeria argues conflicts with DR Congo’s constitutional provisions, which reportedly prohibit multiple citizenships. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is said to be questioning whether the affected players properly renounced their other nationalities before representing DR Congo at international level.
FIFA is currently reviewing the circumstances surrounding the issuance of Congolese passports to the players in question. The world football governing body is also examining whether the process complied with both domestic legal requirements and FIFA’s own eligibility regulations.
Sources indicate that FIFA’s assessment includes determining how national constitutional provisions align with its statutes governing international player eligibility. A final decision is expected in the coming days.
Observers say a ruling in Nigeria’s favour could carry significant implications for African football. Several countries across the continent maintain constitutional or legal restrictions regarding dual citizenship. A precedent-setting decision may therefore prompt broader reviews of player eligibility within multiple national teams.
FIFA traditionally considers both its regulations and relevant domestic legal frameworks when resolving eligibility disputes, making this case particularly sensitive. Football authorities across Africa are reportedly monitoring developments closely, as the outcome could influence future interpretations of nationality and representation rules in international competitions.
Should FIFA uphold Nigeria’s protest, it could potentially reopen the Super Eagles’ path to the 2026 World Cup while triggering a wider reassessment of eligibility standards across African football.
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