The DR Congo football federation has dismissed Nigeria’s FIFA petition regarding player eligibility, urging the Super Eagles to stop seeking “backdoor” qualification through legal technicalities.
The Congolese Football Federation has issued a stern warning to Nigeria following a petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to FIFA.
The NFF is contesting the eligibility of several DR Congo players used during their recent World Cup play-off, which saw the Super Eagles eliminated in a 4–3 penalty shoot-out.
In response, the Congolese body dismissed the allegations, insisting their players, including recent switch Aaron Wan-Bissaka, are fully compliant with FIFA regulations.
Central to the dispute are allegations that up to nine Congolese players failed to formally renounce their previous citizenships, potentially violating the DR Congo constitution, which prohibits dual nationality.
While FIFA reportedly cleared the players based on valid Congolese passports, Nigeria argues this administrative oversight should invalidate the match results.
The Congolese side currently holds a bye into the intercontinental play-off final, where they are slated to face either New Caledonia or Jamaica for a World Cup spot.
Taking to social media to defend their integrity, the DR Congo national team’s official account took a swipe at the NFF’s legal strategy.
The federation asserted that competitive results should be determined solely on the pitch rather than through administrative challenges.
The post stated: “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.”