World Cup: NFF Denies Reports of FIFA Rejecting Nigeria’s DR Congo Appeal
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has firmly denied reports claiming that FIFA has rejected Nigeria’s appeal against DR Congo over the alleged use of ineligible players in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
In a new and verified update, the NFF clarified that FIFA has not yet reached a decision on the matter, contrary to claims circulating in sections of the media that Nigeria’s appeal had already been dismissed.
According to information obtained by Newstelly, the appeal submitted by the NFF is still under review by FIFA’s relevant judicial bodies, and no official ruling has been communicated to Nigeria’s football authorities as of the time of filing this report.
An NFF official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, described the reports of a rejection as “false and misleading,” stressing that the federation remains in active correspondence with FIFA regarding the case.
“There has been no official decision from FIFA on the appeal. The process is ongoing, and we are awaiting formal communication,” the official said.
Nigeria’s petition is based on allegations that DR Congo fielded players who did not meet FIFA’s eligibility requirements during the World Cup qualifying fixture. The NFF had earlier confirmed that it followed due process by submitting its protest within the stipulated timeframe and in line with FIFA regulations.
Meanwhile, Newstelly acknowledges that an earlier report published a few days ago suggested that FIFA had rejected Nigeria’s appeal. That report was based on information that has now proven to be unconfirmed.
Newstelly deeply regrets the earlier publication and sincerely apologises to its readers. The platform reiterates its commitment to publishing accurate, verified, and responsible journalism, especially on issues of national importance.
As of now, the World Cup qualification dispute involving Nigeria and DR Congo remains unresolved, and Newstelly will continue to monitor developments and provide updates once FIFA issues an official decision.
