Tensions are rising between the football federations of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Nigeria.
This follows a controversial 2026 World Cup play-off clash that has now moved from the pitch to the courtroom.
The DRC football body has issued a stern warning to the Super Eagles. They have accused Nigeria of attempting to secure World Cup qualification through a “backdoor” legal challenge.
This strong rebuttal responds to a petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to FIFA. The NFF is currently protesting the eligibility of several Congolese players used during their recent play-off match in Morocco. DR Congo won that match 4–3 on penalties, which seemingly ended Nigeria’s World Cup hopes.
The Core of the Dispute: Dual Nationality
The controversy centers on the nationality status of several players. Allegations suggest that between six and nine players who switched allegiance to DR Congo did not follow domestic laws.
While FIFA cleared the players based on their valid passports, a legal conflict exists. Reports suggest these players may not have formally renounced their previous citizenships. This would violate the DRC constitution, which strictly prohibits dual nationality.
NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, confirmed the basis of Nigeria’s petition.
“The Congolese rules say you cannot have dual citizenship,” Sanusi stated. “Wan-Bissaka has a European passport; others have French or Dutch passports. The rules are clear, and we have submitted our petition.”
Sanusi argued that the process was “fraudulent.” He believes FIFA was deceived into clearing the players based on incomplete information provided by the DRC association.
DR Congo Fires Back
On Wednesday, the DR Congo national team used social media to dismiss the allegations. They mocked Nigeria’s efforts to overturn the match result through administrative means.
Using their official X (formerly Twitter) account, the federation posted a defiant message:
“If you can’t win on the pitch, don’t try to win from the back door. The World Cup must be played with dignity — not with legal tricks.”
To defend their position, the federation shared photos of high-profile star Aaron Wan-Bissaka meeting with President Felix Tshisekedi. Furthermore, they released screenshots from FIFA’s “Change of Association” platform. These images intended to prove that all legal switches were finalized correctly.
High Stakes for Both Nations
The outcome of this FIFA petition is critical for the future of both teams.
- For Nigeria: Success could revive their 2026 World Cup dreams. It would prevent them from missing back-to-back tournaments after their 2022 failure.
- For DR Congo: They currently hold a bye into the intercontinental play-off final. If they are disqualified, they will lose their chance to reach their first World Cup since 1974.
Currently, the football world is waiting for FIFA’s final verdict on the eligibility of the Congolese squad.
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