DR Congo Warns NFF Against Off-Pitch World Cup Protest Over Player Eligibility Dispute

DR Congo Warns NFF Against Off-Pitch World Cup Protest Over Player Eligibility Dispute

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has issued a strong warning to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) following Nigeria’s petition to FIFA over alleged ineligible players in the 2026 World Cup playoff. The NFF formally challenged the eligibility of some DR Congo national team players who featured in the playoff match that ended Nigeria’s qualification hopes.

DR Congo, which defeated the Super Eagles on penalties in November, dismissed the allegations, accusing Nigeria of attempting to overturn the result through administrative means. In a statement on the national team’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, the Leopards said: “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 and confidence — not with legal tricks. Bring it on.”

The NFF’s petition focuses on claims that several DR Congo players who switched national allegiance may not have fully complied with FIFA nationality eligibility rules. The dispute centers on dual nationality, which is not recognised under DR Congo law.

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Confirming the protest, NFF Secretary General Dr. Mohammed Sanusi said Nigeria had formally raised concerns with FIFA over possible violations of nationality regulations. “We’re waiting. The Congolese rules say you cannot have a dual citizenship or nationality. Wan-Bissaka has a European passport, there are some of them that have French passports, some of them Dutch passports. The rules are very clear, and we have submitted our petition,” Sanusi explained.

He added that FIFA had previously cleared the players based on information submitted by DR Congo, which Nigeria believes may have been incomplete or misleading. “That’s why FIFA cleared them. FIFA rules say once you have passports of your country, you’re eligible, as far as FIFA is concerned. But our concern is that FIFA was deceived into clearing them,” he said.

The dispute highlights ongoing tensions in African football over player eligibility and raises questions about compliance with FIFA regulations as nations prepare for the 2026 World Cup.

DR Congo Warns NFF Against Off-Pitch World Cup Protest Over Player Eligibility Dispute