In a major ruling, FIFA has officially dismissed Nigeria’s protest challenging the eligibility of several DR Congo players during their critical 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff match.

The Nigerian Football Federation had alleged that up to nine players on the DR Congo squad, including defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka, were ineligible. The claims centered on alleged violations of both Congolese nationality laws—which generally disallow dual citizenship—and FIFA’s rules on switching national teams.

The protest followed the tense November 16 playoff final held in Rabat, Morocco, where the match ended 1-1 after extra time. DR Congo ultimately triumphed 4-3 in the penalty shootout, securing their place in the upcoming intercontinental playoffs.

After an extensive review, FIFA’s adjudication body ruled that DR Congo had fully complied with all relevant regulations. The governing body found there was insufficient evidence to back Nigeria’s claims, effectively upholding DR Congo’s victory.

As a result, the original match result stands. No points were awarded to Nigeria, and DR Congo will advance to the intercontinental playoffs set for March 2026 in Mexico.

The decision brings an end to Nigeria’s hopes of overturning the result through administrative channels. Attention for the Super Eagles now turns squarely back to the pitch, where fans and analysts alike are calling for success through strong on-field performances rather than appeals.

We will continue to monitor developments in the road to the 2026 World Cup.

Reporting by Henry Nichols.