Fifa has imposed sanctions on the national football teams of Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) following disciplinary issues that arose during their 2026 World Cup continental play-off held in November 2025.

Disciplinary Actions Taken

According to a report from Fifa's judicial body, both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the DR Congo Football Association (Fecofa) were found guilty of distinct violations during the match. The NFF was fined 1,000 Swiss francs (approximately $1,270 or £950) for failing to maintain "order and security," particularly due to the "throwing of objects" by fans during the game. This incident was classified as a breach under Article 17.2.b and Article 17 of the Fifa disciplinary code.

In contrast, the Congolese FA faced a more substantial penalty of 5,000 Swiss francs after their supporters were found to have used "laser pointers or similar electronic devices," which is a violation of Article 17.2.d. The BBC has reached out to both federations for comments and is awaiting their responses.

Nigeria's Protest and Upcoming Matches

The African play-off final, which took place on 16 November 2025 in Rabat, Morocco, concluded with DR Congo winning 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regular and extra time. This result ended Nigeria's hopes of qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 2018. Following the match, Nigeria's head coach Eric Chelle accused DR Congo officials of attempting to use voodoo before the decisive penalty taken by Leopards captain Chancel Mbemba.

In response to their defeat, the NFF filed a formal protest with Fifa, questioning the eligibility of several DR Congo players who had switched their international allegiance. Nigeria's complaint is based on domestic laws in DR Congo that reportedly do not recognize dual citizenship for adults, raising concerns about the eligibility of players like Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe, who participated in the match.

With only two weeks left before the intercontinental play-offs in Mexico, which will determine which nations qualify for the World Cup finals, the sanctions have intensified the focus on Fifa's decision regarding Nigeria's protest about the alleged use of ineligible players by DR Congo. Despite the ongoing issues, Fifa has included DR Congo in the fixtures for the upcoming intercontinental play-offs, where they are scheduled to face the winner of the match between New Caledonia and Jamaica on 31 March.

Leopards head coach Sebastien Desabre has announced a 26-man squad, including Yoane Wissa, who returns after missing the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations due to a knee injury. DR Congo aims to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1974, when they competed under the name Zaire. Up to 10 African nations could secure a spot in the expanded tournament set to take place in North America.