Super Eagles: FIFA sets date to rule on Nigeria’s World Cup appeal against DR Congo

FIFA has informed the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) that a decision is imminent in the Super Eagles’ appeal against the Democratic Republic of Congo over their recent World Cup qualifying play-off, Afrik-Foot reports.

Nigeria lodged a formal petition in December, questioning the eligibility of several DR Congo players who had recently switched international allegiance.

The NFF maintains that the nationality changes were approved under false pretences, arguing that Congolese law does not permit dual citizenship, a rule they claim the players breached by retaining European passports.

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The dispute follows Nigeria’s dramatic defeat to DR Congo on penalties in November’s African play-off final, a result that pushed the Leopards forward toward the intercontinental qualifying round. The Super Eagles now hope an off-field ruling could revive their chances of reaching the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

At the heart of the case are six players, including high-profile defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka, whose switches of allegiance Nigeria insists should never have been cleared.

Super Eagles vs DR Congo: Verdict expected within days

According to Score Nigeria, the NFF say FIFA has indicated that a ruling should arrive around mid-February, barely two months after the petition was filed.

“It’s most likely that FIFA will rule on this matter either February 15 or 16th. The initial date is 15th, but it’s a Sunday and it is not really a working day in Europe. But what is very clear is that the verdict is now very close,” the report noted.

Should Nigeria’s appeal succeed, the Super Eagles would replace DR Congo in the intercontinental play-offs, effectively handing them another lifeline in the qualification campaign.

Nigeria’s recent World Cup journey has already been shaped by administrative twists. Earlier in the campaign, South Africa were docked points for fielding an ineligible player, while Eritrea’s withdrawal reshaped the group standings, eventually allowing Nigeria to sneak into the play-offs on goal difference.

NFF general secretary Mohammed Sanusi has since expressed confidence in the strength of the federation’s case, insisting the evidence submitted to FIFA was comprehensive.

Former Super Eagles midfielder Mutiu Adepoju echoed that cautious optimism, urging patience as the process unfolds.

“I’m keeping my fingers crossed and hoping the outcome will be positive for Nigeria,” he told Sports247.

“It’s a delicate situation, but we can only wait and see how it turns out. Whatever the decision is, it has to be based on the rules.

“As Nigerians, we all hope it goes in our favour, but the authorities must do what is right.”

Nigeria last appeared at a World Cup in 2018 and failed to qualify for the 2022 tournament in Qatar.