FIFA to Rule Monday on DR Congo vs Nigeria Controversy

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will finally learn their fate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification on Monday, as FIFA prepares to rule on Nigeria’s appeal concerning DR Congo’s player eligibility in the African qualifiers.

The drama stems from the playoff match held in Rabat, Morocco, last November, where DR Congo eliminated Nigeria. After a 1‑1 draw in extra time, DR Congo won 4‑3 on penalties, securing a place in the next stage of the tournament. Nigeria, however, lodged a formal complaint with FIFA, alleging that several Congolese players did not meet nationality requirements, which, if upheld, could reopen Nigeria’s path to the World Cup 2026.

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Speaking about the appeal, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officials emphasized that the complaint focuses on the proper application of player eligibility and nationality laws, asserting that DR Congo fielded ineligible players in the crucial qualifier. Congolese authorities have dismissed the claims as an attempt to overturn results “through the back door” rather than on the field.

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi expressed cautious optimism about the ruling, saying the team continues to hope for a favourable outcome that could see Nigeria return to contention for the World Cup 2026.

FIFA’s upcoming decision is expected to have a major impact on Nigeria’s World Cup dreams. Should the complaint be upheld, DR Congo’s result could be overturned, or sanctions could be applied, potentially allowing the Super Eagles to reclaim their place in the tournament. If FIFA upholds DR Congo’s qualification, Nigeria’s hopes will remain dashed, pending any further legal action.

Fans across Nigeria and Africa are closely monitoring the case, which has become one of the most talked-about controversies in the lead-up to World Cup 2026.

FIFA to Rule Monday on DR Congo vs Nigeria Controversy

Lookman Shines as Atlético Madrid Hammer Barcelona 4-0

Atlético Madrid delivered a blistering first-half performance to thrash FC Barcelona 4–0 in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final at the Metropolitano on Thursday night.

Nigerian international Ademola Lookman continued his fine scoring form, netting in the 33rd minute as Diego Simeone’s side ran riot in a devastating opening 45 minutes.

Atlético took the lead as early as the sixth minute when Barcelona defender Eric García inadvertently turned the ball into his own net under pressure, setting the tone for a difficult evening for the visitors.

The hosts doubled their advantage in the 14th minute through Antoine Griezmann, who capitalised on Barcelona’s shaky defensive start to slot home confidently. Lookman then extended the lead in the 33rd minute with a composed finish after a swift attacking move exposed gaps in the Blaugrana backline.

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Argentine forward Julián Álvarez completed the rout before halftime, adding Atlético’s fourth goal to crown a ruthless first-half display that left Barcelona shell-shocked.

Despite naming a strong line-up that included teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, Barcelona struggled to cope with Atlético’s intensity, pressing, and clinical finishing. At several stages in the first half, Xavi’s men were forced onto the back foot as the home side dictated the tempo.

Barcelona’s night went from bad to worse in the 85th minute when Eric García received a second yellow card and was sent off for a professional foul as the last defender.

The emphatic result gives Atlético a commanding advantage heading into the return leg at Camp Nou on March 4. Barcelona will need a remarkable turnaround in front of their home fans to keep their hopes of reaching the Copa del Rey final alive.

Before the decisive second leg, Barcelona will shift focus back to La Liga action with an away fixture against Girona FC on Monday.

Lookman Shines as Atlético Madrid Hammer Barcelona 4-0

Manchester City Defeat Fulham 3‑0 to Narrow Gap on Arsenal

Manchester City delivered a commanding performance on Wednesday, defeating Fulham 3‑0 at the Etihad Stadium to reduce Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League to just three points. The victory strengthens City’s bid for the 2025‑26 title and underscores their growing momentum as the season approaches its critical stages.

City dominated from the outset, taking control of the match through quick, precise passing and relentless pressure in Fulham’s defensive third. The opener came in the 24th minute when Antoine Semenyo finished clinically after a sustained City attack, giving the home side an early advantage. Six minutes later, Nico O’Reilly doubled City’s lead with a composed finish following a slick team move, leaving Fulham struggling to respond.

The contest was effectively sealed in the 39th minute as Erling Haaland struck a powerful shot into the bottom corner, marking his 153rd goal for Manchester City and moving him joint-fourth on the club’s all-time scoring list. Haaland’s goal also ended his open-play league goal drought, boosting City’s confidence heading into the run-in.

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Fulham offered little resistance, with their best early chance denied by Gianluigi Donnarumma, City’s goalkeeper. Despite sporadic pressure late in the game, the visitors failed to breach City’s well-organized defence, leaving the home team in complete control throughout the 90 minutes.

With the win, Manchester City climb to 53 points from 26 matches, sitting just behind Arsenal, who retain a game in hand. Fulham remain mid-table on 34 points, struggling to find consistency in recent fixtures.

City’s performance showcased attacking cohesion, defensive solidity, and tactical discipline, giving manager Pep Guardiola a strong platform as his side intensifies their Premier League title challenge. With over a dozen matches remaining, the narrowing gap sets up an intense battle for the top spot between the two Manchester rivals’ challengers.

Manchester City Defeat Fulham 3‑0 to Narrow Gap on Arsenal