Nigeria protest vs DR Congo: Ndidi says Super Eagles want ‘clarity’ as FIFA delays decision

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi says Nigeria have not completely lost hope of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite their dramatic exit from the African qualifying route, Afrik-Foot reports.

Nigeria were knocked out of the qualification race in November after losing to DR Congo in a tense continental playoff decided by penalties. The defeat appeared to end the country’s hopes of playing at the tournament, but events after the match opened another possible route.

Shortly after the game, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) submitted an official complaint to FIFA. The federation claimed that DR Congo used players who were not eligible during the playoff encounter. If FIFA agrees with Nigeria’s complaint, the result of the match could be overturned and DR Congo removed from the playoff process, potentially giving Nigeria a chance to continue in the intercontinental playoffs.

So far, however, FIFA has not announced a final decision on the matter. With less than three weeks to the start of the playoffs, uncertainty still surrounds the situation.

Earlier this week, FIFA released the schedule for the upcoming intercontinental playoffs. DR Congo were listed as one of the participating teams, leading many observers to assume that Nigeria’s protest had already been rejected. Nigerian football officials insist that this is not the case and say they are still waiting for FIFA’s official verdict.

Ndidi calls for clarity as Nigeria await FIFA decision

Amid the ongoing debate, Ndidi says the Super Eagles have chosen not to become distracted by the controversy.

The midfielder explained that the players are focused on preparing themselves and leaving the administrative matters to the football authorities.

“To be honest, I don’t really focus on things I cannot control,” Ndidi told the Punch.

“We just concentrate on our football and prepare ourselves the best way possible.

“Of course, everyone wants clarity, but we trust the Nigeria Football Federation and the authorities to handle everything properly.

“As players, our job is to stay ready, stay united, and keep working hard. Nigerian fans always expect the best from us, and we respect that. Whatever the outcome, we will continue to give everything for the country and make Nigeria proud.”

The intercontinental playoffs are scheduled to take place between March 26 and March 31 in Guadalajara and Monterrey in Mexico. Six teams will compete for the final two places at the expanded World Cup.

At the moment, DR Congo are set to face the winner of Jamaica versus New Caledonia for a chance to qualify for the tournament. But a ruling in Nigeria’s favour could completely change that lineup.

Meanwhile, the NFF has arranged a four-nation friendly tournament for the Super Eagles during the March international window. Nigeria are expected to play Iran on March 27 and Jordan on March 31 in Amman. However, there are doubts about whether the matches will go ahead because of ongoing political crisis in the Middle East.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico and will be the first edition to feature 48 teams. Nigeria, who missed the 2022 tournament in Qatar, are hoping that a favourable FIFA decision could still give them another chance to be part of the global event.