Nigeria’s World Cup hopes have exploded into fresh controversy as the National Sports Commission declared that the Super Eagles’ case against DR Congo over ineligible players is rock solid and firmly grounded in FIFA rules.
Nigeria has formally asked FIFA to throw DR Congo out of the 2026 World Cup playoffs, accusing the Congolese side of improperly clearing players who had previously represented other countries.
Speaking on Arise TV, NSC chairman Shehu Dikko dismissed claims of bitterness, insisting Nigeria is simply invoking the law.
“Our case is very tight, we’re not sore losers, this is part of the law,” Dikko said.
He warned that serious irregularities may have occurred in the clearance process, suggesting FIFA was misled.
“There are suspicions that somethings have not been done right in accordance with the laws of the game.
“They have probably misrepresented their position to FIFA to obtain those clearances.”
Dikko pointed to a recent FIFA ruling as a strong signal that sanctions are possible if violations are established.
“Just two days ago, FIFA have ruled against Malaysia on the same issue because they procured the passports of their players illegally and now they have forfeited all the matches they have played with those play.”
With the stakes high and precedents already set, Nigeria’s petition has ignited intense debate across African football as fans await FIFA’s verdict on the explosive complaint.
