World Cup: NFF appeals FIFA verdict on DR Congo Playoffs dispute
The Nigeria Football Federation has moved swiftly to challenge the ruling of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, confirming that it has begun the process of appealing the decision over its protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, disclosed that the federation is dissatisfied with FIFA’s verdict and is determined to pursue the matter through the appropriate legal channels.
“We have received the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee on our petition, but we are not satisfied with the decision, which rejected our petition. I want to assure Nigerians that the NFF has immediately commenced the process of appealing the decision,” Sanusi said.
The appeal follows Nigeria’s earlier petition alleging irregularities in the documentation of some DR Congo players who featured in the decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup African Playoff final held in Rabat.
The match, staged at the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium, ended 1-1 before DR Congo edged the Super Eagles in a dramatic penalty shootout.
With the appeal now underway, the NFF is seeking a review of the evidence presented, hoping for a different outcome that could reopen Nigeria’s path to the World Cup.
The development signals that the federation is not ready to concede defeat off the pitch, as it continues its legal battle with FIFA over the controversial playoff fixture.
Observers note that while appeals in such cases face a high bar, Nigeria’s persistence underscores the importance it attaches to due process and fairness in international football competition.
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