FECOFA fires back as NFF challenges nationality status of key Congolese stars after playoff defeat.

Tensions continue to rise between Nigeria and DR Congo after the football federation of the Democratic Republic of Congo issued a strong warning to the Super Eagles over their pursuit of a 2026 World Cup return.

Reacting to Nigeria’s petition to FIFA — challenging the eligibility of several Congolese players involved in last week’s decisive intercontinental playoff — DR Congo described the move as an attempt to qualify “through the back door.”

Nigeria lost the match 4–3 on penalties in Morocco, ending hopes of advancing to the final playoff and securing a World Cup ticket. Congo has since progressed to the final round, where they await the winner between New Caledonia and Jamaica.

Congolese players’ eligibility status as obtained on the FIFA website. Credit: DR Congo Football Federation/X

Reports suggest six to nine DR Congo stars — including high-profile switches such as Aaron Wan-Bissaka — may not have fully complied with domestic nationality rules, which prohibit dual citizenship. While FIFA cleared the players based on valid passports, the NFF alleges deception and procedural fraud.

In a post shared on their official X account, DR Congo fired back at Nigeria, saying:
“If you can’t win on the pitch, don’t try to win from the back door. The World Cup must be played with dignity and confidence — not with legal tricks. Bring it on.”

To further counter Nigeria’s claims, DR Congo also shared images from FIFA’s “Change of Association” platform showing the nationality switch status of key players, including documented dates and approvals.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka during accreditation. Credit: DR Congo Football Federation/X

Nigeria, meanwhile, believes the constitution of DR Congo provides grounds for FIFA intervention.
NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi insists that the federation is acting within the rules, stating:
“Wan-Bissaka has a European passport; some have French, others Dutch. The rules are very clear, and we have submitted our petition.”

The development has reopened Nigeria’s faint hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup after missing out on Qatar 2022.

DR Congo has appeared at the World Cup only once, in 1974 as Zaire, while Nigeria remains determined to avoid back-to-back absences from football’s biggest stage.

The next move lies with FIFA — and the world is watching.