FIFA Fines Nigeria, DR Congo Over 2026 World Cup Play-Off Breaches
FIFA has sanctioned the Nigeria Football Federation and the DR Congo Football Federation over disciplinary breaches during the 2026 World Cup African play-off final.
The penalties come four months after the tense match in Morocco on November 16, 2025, where DR Congo defeated Nigeria 4–3 on penalties to advance to the intercontinental play-offs.
According to FIFA’s latest disciplinary report, both federations were found guilty of separate offences.
Nigeria was penalised for failing to maintain order and security, after spectators threw objects onto the pitch, breaching Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
The federation was fined 1,000 Swiss francs.
The DR Congo federation faced a stiffer sanction after its supporters were found using laser pointers or similar devices, violating Article 17.2.d of the code.
FIFA imposed a fine of 5,000 Swiss francs on the Congolese body.
The ruling comes amid ongoing controversy over the match. Nigeria continues to challenge the eligibility of several DR Congo players.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle had accused Congolese officials of resorting to “voodoo” after Nigeria’s defeat.
Additionally, the Nigerian federation has formally petitioned FIFA to investigate the alleged use of ineligible players by DR Congo.
Submitted on December 15, 2025, the complaint claims that Congolese authorities misled FIFA in obtaining nationality switches for several overseas-born players shortly before the decisive fixture.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
