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BOU
AFCON 2025
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Nigeria's chances of reaching the 2026 World Cup will be decided by FIFA this week
FIFA will deliver a crucial ruling on Monday, February 16, over Nigeria’s eligibility protest against DR Congo. The decision could determine whether the Super Eagles still have a route to the 2026 World Cup.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) submitted a formal complaint on December 15, 2025, alleging that six DR Congo players who featured in the November African playoff final were ineligible after switching international allegiance.
NFF confident as verdict approaches
Despite the painful exit, Nigerian football authorities remain convinced their protest carries weight. NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi has publicly backed the federation’s case and expressed belief that the evidence supports their claims.
“We have a good case,” Sanusi said. “We do not venture into what would be an exercise in futility. As far as we are concerned, we have a strong case, and we are awaiting FIFA’s decision on the complaints we have lodged.”
His comments reflect a federation determined to challenge the circumstances surrounding the playoff defeat and seek clarity on player eligibility regulations.
Midfielder Alex Iwobi has also voiced optimism, saying: “We are still waiting; hopefully, we can go to the World Cup.” For players and officials alike, the belief remains that the final chapter of this qualification story has not yet been written.
What ruling in Nigeria’s favour would mean
If FIFA rules in Nigeria’s favour, the Super Eagles would be reinstated into contention and advance to the six-team Intercontinental Play-Off tournament scheduled for March in Mexico.
That competition represents a final opportunity to secure one of the remaining African slots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The expanded tournament will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, raising the stakes for every nation involved. For Nigeria, qualification would revive a campaign that appeared over on the pitch and offer redemption after the penalty shootout defeat.
Until Monday’s meeting concludes, the country’s World Cup ambitions hang in the balance, with supporters across Nigeria awaiting a verdict that could dramatically reshape their team’s path to football’s biggest stage.