The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has refuted media reports claiming that FIFA has dismissed its petition challenging the eligibility of several Democratic Republic of Congo players who featured in last month’s World Cup 2026 play-off.
In a statement, NFF Secretary General Mohammed Sanusi clarified that the federation has not received any official communication from FIFA regarding the matter.
“The Nigeria Football Federation submitted a petition to FIFA concerning the eligibility of some players from DR Congo, and should there be any development, FIFA will communicate directly with the NFF,” Sanusi stated.
He further emphasized, “The NFF has not received any correspondence from FIFA indicating that our petition has been rejected.”
Sanusi expressed confusion over the source of the reports, challenging those disseminating the information to provide evidence of the alleged FIFA decision.
The outcome of FIFA’s ruling could significantly impact Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, following the Super Eagles’ defeat to DR Congo in the play-off final held in Morocco.
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Disclaimer:
This report is based on statements from the Nigeria Football Federation. CDA News Nigeria has independently verified the status of the petition or FIFA’s internal deliberations.
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