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Nigeria’s World Cup Hopes Rekindled as FIFA Probes DR Congo Eligibility Claims
Nigeria’s hopes of returning to the FIFA World Cup may yet be revived, with world football’s governing body continuing to investigate player eligibility concerns involving the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) following the African playoffs for the 2026 tournament.
The Super Eagles were eliminated by DR Congo on penalties in the decisive playoff for Africa’s intercontinental qualifying spot. However, that result is now under scrutiny after allegations surfaced that DR Congo may have fielded ineligible players in violation of FIFA regulations.
The investigation reportedly centres on claims that as many as nine DR Congo players may have changed national allegiance without fully completing the legal and administrative processes required under both Congolese law and FIFA statutes.
DR Congo does not generally recognise dual citizenship, meaning individuals who acquire another nationality are expected to formally renounce their original citizenship — a requirement that becomes especially critical for players who had already passed the age threshold for making a definitive nationality choice.
Under FIFA regulations, possession of a passport alone does not automatically confer eligibility to represent a national team. Players must also meet domestic legal requirements and comply fully with FIFA’s rules governing changes of international allegiance. Reports suggest that some of these conditions may not have been satisfied, with further questions raised over the documentation of at least one player who had previously declined an international call-up.
FIFA is understood to be examining the matter closely, with its findings expected to determine whether any violations occurred and what sanctions, if any, may be imposed. Potential outcomes range from match forfeiture to broader disciplinary measures, depending on the severity of any confirmed breaches.
While outright expulsion from international competition would represent an extreme outcome, the ongoing inquiry has cast significant uncertainty over DR Congo’s World Cup qualification status. Nigeria, meanwhile, remain on standby as they await FIFA’s final decision.
