FIFA’s reported rejection of Nigeria’s protest over DR Congo’s player eligibility sparks criticism of the NFF’s handling of the World Cup qualification dispute.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has come under renewed criticism following reports that FIFA cited the use of an incorrect email channel as one of the reasons for rejecting Nigeria’s protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) over the alleged use of ineligible players during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoffs.
The development has sparked reactions among football supporters, with many questioning the NFF’s handling of the complaint and its efforts to challenge the eligibility of players fielded by DR Congo.
According to reports, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee rejected Nigeria’s petition, which challenged the eligibility of some DR Congo players, including goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, who featured in the decisive playoff match against the Super Eagles.
A report by Sahara Reporters stated that the controversy has generated criticism of the NFF, with some Nigerians expressing frustration over the federation’s handling of a case that could have affected the country’s World Cup qualification hopes.
Reports citing a source at the National Sports Commission indicated that Nigeria’s complaint was allegedly sent to the office of FIFA’s Secretary-General rather than through the designated legal submission channel.
The source reportedly questioned the rationale behind the decision, arguing that official correspondence from member associations is routinely directed to the Secretary-General’s office before being referred to the appropriate department.
However, the allegation concerning the incorrect submission channel has not been independently confirmed by FIFA in the reports reviewed.
The dispute centres partly on questions surrounding the eligibility of DR Congo players, particularly goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, who was born in France and previously represented the country at youth level.
Concerns were raised over whether the required procedures for changing international allegiance had been completed before the players featured in the World Cup qualifying playoffs.
Nigeria’s protest followed the Super Eagles’ defeat to DR Congo in the African playoff final in Rabat, Morocco, on November 16, 2025. The match ended 1–1 after extra time before DR Congo secured a 4–3 victory in the penalty shootout.
Following the defeat, the NFF submitted a petition to FIFA, challenging the eligibility of players fielded by DR Congo and seeking a review of the circumstances surrounding their participation.
FIFA subsequently rejected Nigeria’s complaint, reportedly citing procedural issues, including the timing and submission of the protest.
The decision has intensified scrutiny of the NFF, with critics questioning whether the federation complied with the relevant rules and deadlines in presenting its case.
The controversy has also renewed calls for greater professionalism, transparency and accountability in the administration of Nigerian football, particularly in matters involving international competitions and legal disputes.
DR Congo went on to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Nigeria missed out on the tournament.
As of the latest reports, the NFF had yet to provide a detailed public explanation addressing the allegation that its protest was sent through the wrong channel.
