FIFA Sanctions Nigeria Football Federation and DR Congo Football Federation Over World Cup Play-off Breaches

World football governing body FIFA has sanctioned both Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo over disciplinary violations that occurred during their controversial 2026 World Cup African play-off final.

According to FIFA’s disciplinary report on the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, both football federations were found guilty of separate offences during the match played in Morocco on November 16, 2025.

Sanctions on Nigeria

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was penalised after spectators were reported to have thrown objects during the game.

The act was ruled a violation of Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, leading to a fine of 1,000 Swiss francs imposed on the Nigerian football authority.

DR Congo Receives Heavier Fine

Meanwhile, the DR Congo Football Federation received a 5,000 Swiss francs fine after their supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match, an offence under Article 17.2.d of the code.

Match Outcome and Controversy

DR Congo defeated Nigeria 4–3 on penalties in the tense play-off final to advance to the intercontinental play-offs.

Following the loss, Eric Chelle, head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, alleged that Congolese officials resorted to voodoo practices during the match.

Nigeria’s Protest to FIFA

Attention has now shifted to FIFA’s pending decision regarding Nigeria’s protest against DR Congo over the alleged use of ineligible players in the play-off match.

The NFF submitted a formal complaint on December 15, 2025, asking FIFA to investigate the eligibility status of several players who represented DR Congo.

Among the players listed in the complaint were:

• Lionel Mpasi
• Aaron Wan-Bissaka
• Axel Tuanzebe
• Arthur Masuaku
• Samuel Moutoussamy
• Ngal’ayel Mukau
• Noah Sadiki
• Nathanaël Mbuku
• Cédric Bakambu

The complaint, which was made public by journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, alleged that some of the players only received clearance to represent DR Congo just days before the decisive play-off match, despite being included in the squad earlier.

FIFA is yet to announce its final decision on the protest. ⚽