FIFA Sanctions Nigeria, DR Congo, Silent on Eagles’ Protest Over Player Eligibility

World football governing body, FIFA, has sanctioned the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Congolese Football Association over disciplinary incidents that occurred during the African playoff final for the 2026 World Cup between the two nations.

However, FIFA has yet to comment on Nigeria’s protest accusing DR Congo of fielding ineligible players during the decisive match.

According to FIFA’s disciplinary report on the World Cup qualifying fixture played on November 16, 2025, in Morocco, both football bodies were found guilty of separate violations during the encounter.

Nigeria was penalised for breaches relating to order and security at the match after spectators were reported to have thrown objects during the game. The offence, which falls under Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, attracted a fine of 1,000 Swiss Francs for the NFF.

In contrast, the Congolese Football Association received a heavier penalty after their supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match. The act violated Article 17.2.d of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, leading to a fine of 5,000 Swiss Francs.

Meanwhile, the Jordan Football Association has announced that the venue for a four-nation invitational tournament involving Nigeria has been moved from Amman to Antalya, Turkey.

The association explained that the relocation was due to the current situation in the region and restrictions affecting the movement of people.

The tournament will feature Jordan, Iran, Nigeria and Costa Rica as part of their international preparations.

Jordan will face Costa Rica in the opening match on March 27, while Nigeria will take on Iran later the same day. Four days later, Jordan will meet the Super Eagles, while Iran will play Costa Rica in the other fixture.

The tournament coincides with the Inter-Continental World Cup playoffs, during which Nigeria has already filed a petition with FIFA over DR Congo’s alleged use of ineligible players during the African qualifying match in Morocco.