FIFA has imposed sanctions on both Nigeria and DR Congo after incidents that occurred during their African continental play-off for the 2026 World Cup in November. The governing body’s disciplinary panel confirmed that each federation committed separate offences during the fixture.
FIFA has imposed sanctions on both Nigeria and DR Congo after incidents that occurred during their African continental play-off for the 2026 World Cup in November. The governing body’s disciplinary panel confirmed that each federation committed separate offences during the fixture.
Nigeria’s football authorities were fined 1,000 Swiss francs after FIFA ruled they had not adequately maintained order and security. The decision referenced crowd behaviour, including supporters throwing objects during the match, which breached specific provisions of the disciplinary code.
DR Congo’s federation received a more substantial penalty of 5,000 Swiss francs. This punishment was issued after fans were found to have used laser devices or similar equipment, an act also classified as a violation under FIFA regulations.
Both federations have been approached for comment, though no official responses have yet been provided.
The decisive play-off, held on 16 November 2025 in Rabat, ended in dramatic fashion. After a 1-1 draw and extra time, DR Congo secured qualification with a 4-3 victory in the penalty shootout, crushing Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the World Cup for the first time since 2018.
Tensions escalated before the final kick, when Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle alleged that DR Congo officials attempted to use voodoo. The accusation added further controversy to an already intense encounter.
Following the defeat, Nigeria’s federation formally challenged the result by submitting a protest to FIFA. The complaint questioned the eligibility of several DR Congo players who had recently changed their international allegiance.
Nigeria’s protest focuses on Congolese domestic legislation, which reportedly does not permit dual nationality for adults. This has raised doubts over the participation of certain players who featured in the match after switching representation.
Despite the ongoing dispute, FIFA has already listed DR Congo in the schedule for the upcoming intercontinental play-offs. They are set to play on 31 March against the winner of the tie between New Caledonia and Jamaica.
Meanwhile, DR Congo head coach Sebastien Desabre has announced a 26-man squad for the next stage, including the return of Yoane Wissa, who missed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations due to injury.
The team is aiming to reach the World Cup for the first time since 1974, when the nation competed under the name Zaire. With the expanded tournament in North America, as many as ten African teams could qualify, increasing the stakes around FIFA's pending ruling on Nigeria’s complaint.
