The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced that it is appealing the decision of FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, which rejected its petition challenging the eligibility of certain players fielded by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) during the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-off in Rabat, Morocco, last November.

Nigeria were eliminated from the play-offs after losing 4–3 on penalties to DR Congo.

Following the match, the NFF raised concerns over the legitimacy of some DR Congo players, alleging irregularities in the issuance of passports that qualified them for the fixture.

After several months of deliberation, FIFA delivered its verdict, rejecting Nigeria’s petition.

The NFF, however, confirmed that it has formally launched an appeal, signalling its determination to pursue the matter through the appropriate channels.

“We have received the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee on our petition, but we are not satisfied with the decision, which rejected our petition.

“I want to assure Nigerians that the NFF has immediately commenced the process of appealing the decision,” said the NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi.

Meanwhile, DR Congo are set for the intercontinental play-off scheduled for later this month, having already named their squad.

The team will face the winner of the encounter between Jamaica and New Caledonia, with the victor securing one of the final slots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Channels Television reported on Monday that FIFA sanctioned Nigeria and DR Congo following incidents involving supporters during their World Cup qualification play-off match last November.

In a disciplinary report released by the global football governing body, both countries were found to have breached provisions of the FIFA Disciplinary Code due to the conduct of their fans during the African qualifying play-off final, which DR Congo won on penalties.

The NFF was fined 1,000 Swiss francs after Nigerian supporters were reported to have thrown objects onto the pitch during the match, in violation of Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the code.

The Congolese Football Association, however, received a heavier fine of 5,000 Swiss francs after its supporters were found guilty of using laser pointers during the game, contrary to Article 17.2.d.

FIFA noted that the sanctions were determined based on the circumstances of each case and added that the decisions remain open to appeal.