FIFA’s DRC verdict could reshape African football, says FCTFA Boss
By Olamilekan Israel Mouktar Mohammed, Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Football Association (FCTFA), has stated that FIFA’s looming verdict on the eligibility dispute between Nigeria and DR Congo (DRC)
By Olamilekan Israel
Mouktar Mohammed, Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Football Association (FCTFA), has stated that FIFA’s looming verdict on the eligibility dispute between Nigeria and DR Congo (DRC) will be a "defining moment" for the integrity of African football.
The petition, filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in December 2025, challenges the eligibility of several Congolese players—including high-profile names like Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe—who featured in the 2026 World Cup playoff final in November. Nigeria alleges that these players were fielded in breach of FIFA regulations regarding nationality switches, particularly as Congolese law does not formally recognize dual citizenship.
The Super Eagles were left heartbroken after losing the playoff 4–3 on penalties following a 1–1 draw. If FIFA rules in Nigeria’s favour, the result could be overturned to a 3–0 forfeit, potentially reinstating the three-time African champions into next month’s Intercontinental Playoff tournament in Mexico.
“This is a massive case,” said Mouktar. “The dispute centers on the fundamental rules of national eligibility. From a legal standpoint, the NFF has a compelling argument, and we are optimistic about a positive outcome.”
Beyond Nigeria’s immediate World Cup hopes, Mouktar believes the ruling will serve as a warning to football associations across Africa.
“FIFA has a rigorous legal framework and experts handling this. While we cannot speculate on the final word, the implications are historic. It would validate compliance rules and force countries to think twice before fielding players with questionable status. It’s about the sanctity of the game.”
Mouktar outlined several scenarios that could unfold once the FIFA Disciplinary Committee concludes its review: The match result can be overturned, awarding Nigeria a 3–0 victory or DR Congo is removed from the qualification pathway entirely.
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He also affirmed that FIFA may uphold the result but penalize the Congolese federation (FECOFA) financially if the breach is deemed administrative rather than fraudulent.
However, the FCTFA boss was careful to manage expectations, noting that a favourable ruling is not an automatic ticket to the World Cup. It would merely return the Super Eagles to the qualification pathway, where they would still need to navigate the intercontinental playoffs in March.
The case has reached a fever pitch, with fans in Lagos and Kinshasa trading words on social media. While Nigerians view it as a quest for justice, Congolese supporters have accused the NFF of trying to qualify "through the back door."
As the football world awaits the official word from Zurich, the verdict remains the most anticipated decision in African sports this year.
