NFF Confident in FIFA Case Against DR Congo Over Player Eligibility
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) says it is confident of securing a favourable ruling from FIFA in its eligibility dispute against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Nigeria lodged a formal complaint with the world football governing body, alleging that the DRC fielded foreign-born players against the Super Eagles who had not surrendered their foreign passports or completed nationality switch procedures.
The controversy stems from last November’s CAF World Cup playoff final in Morocco, where the DRC edged Nigeria 4-3 on penalties, ending the Super Eagles’ hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Reports indicate that former Manchester United players Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are central to the case.
Speaking on Brila FM on Friday, NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi insisted the federation’s complaint is well-grounded.
‘We have a good case, we don’t venture into what we know is an exercise in futility,’ he said.
‘As far as we are concerned, we have a good case and we are waiting for what FIFA would say as regards the complaint we have lodged.’
The outcome of FIFA’s review could have significant implications for Nigeria’s World Cup hopes.
