FIFA is expected to issue its long-awaited decision on Monday, February 16, 2026, regarding the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) protest over the eligibility of players fielded by DR Congo in their 2026 World Cup African playoff final.
The NFF lodged the formal complaint on December 15, 2025, alleging that six DR Congo players who featured in the November 2025 tie—where Nigeria lost on penalties in Morocco—were ineligible due to improper or recent nationality switches that violated FIFA regulations.
Multiple reports confirmed that FIFA has scheduled a meeting to address the case, among other matters, with the verdict anticipated on or around February 16.
Nigerian football fans are on edge, with millions awaiting the outcome that could rewrite the Super Eagles’ path to the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico.
The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of player eligibility rules in African qualifiers amid the high stakes of qualification.
Source: X | official_esclub
….stay tuned for more!