DR Congo has dismissed Nigeria’s FIFA petition regarding the eligibility of nine players as an attempt to qualify for the World Cup through the “back door” following the Super Eagles’ playoff defeat.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has lashed out at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) following a legal petition over player eligibility. Nigeria claims the DRC used nine ineligible players during their recent 2026 World Cup playoff victory.
In a sharp social media response, the Leopards told Nigeria to stop seeking qualification through “lawyers tricks” after losing on the pitch. “If you can’t win on the pitch don’t try to win from the back door,” the DRC message stated.
The NFF’s petition centers on allegations that the DRC deceived FIFA regarding the nationality of nine players. NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi argued that DR Congo law forbids dual citizenship, which the players allegedly held during the match.
Sanusi stated, “FIFA were deceived into clearing those players because it is not FIFA’s responsibility to interpret or enforce domestic citizenship laws,” adding that the World Cup must maintain strict legal integrity.
DR Congo secured their spot in the Intercontinental Playoffs scheduled for March 2026 after defeating the Super Eagles in a dramatic penalty shootout.
The NFF remains adamant that the use of these players violated regulations, labeling the situation a breach of trust.
Conversely, the DRC has dismissed the claims as the actions of “bad losers,” maintaining that “The World Cup has to be played with dignity and confidence.”