FIFA, world football’s governing body, is set to deliver a crucial ruling on Monday, February 16, 2026, on an eligibility protest filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) challenging the use of certain Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) players in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoff final.
The decision could drastically alter Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The Super Eagles saw their direct route to the World Cup end in November 2025 after losing 4-3 on penalties to DR Congo at the finals of the African play-off in Rabat, Morocco.
Following that defeat, the NFF lodged a formal protest with FIFA on December 15, 2025, alleging that six DR Congo players who featured in the tie were ineligible because they had recently switched international allegiance, a claim that could, if upheld, lead to DR Congo’s disqualification and Nigeria’s reinstatement into the qualification process
In response to the impending verdict, NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi expressed cautious optimism, saying, “We have a good case… we do not venture into what would be an exercise in futility.” Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi also voiced hope, telling reporters, “We are still waiting; hopefully we can go to the World Cup.”
A favourable FIFA ruling would send Nigeria into the six-team intercontinental play-off scheduled for March in Mexico, where winners secure final berths at the 2026 World Cup. DR Congo officials have previously rejected Nigeria’s allegations, arguing that FIFA’s regulations on player eligibility, which allow a player to represent a country once they hold its passport and receive clearance were followed correctly for each contested player.
Critics say the issue highlights a growing trend of strategic eligibility challenges in international football and underscores the high stakes of World Cup qualification in Africa.