FIFA has dashed the Super Eagles’ hopes of featuring at the 2026 World Cup by confirming DR Congo as Africa’s representative for this month’s inter-confederation play-off tournament.
According to an accreditation notice shared with the media on Wednesday, FIFA outlined the tournament format and listed the six participating countries. Nigeria, however, will not be part of it.
The decision comes despite the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) lodging a formal protest following their November 2025 CAF play-off defeat to DR Congo. Nigeria had claimed that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during the 1-1 draw that was ultimately decided by penalties in favor of DR Congo.
With DR Congo officially confirmed, the Super Eagles’ path to the 2026 World Cup is now closed.
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