FIFA imposes fines on NFF and Congolese FA amid qualification dispute

According to FIFA's latest disciplinary report, separate incidents occurred during the fixture played on 16 November 2025, wrote Premium Times.

Nigeria was penalised for security-related breaches, specifically involving spectators throwing objects onto the pitch. This violation falls under Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, resulting in a fine of 1,000 Swiss Francs for the NFF.

DR Congo, however, faced a stiffer sanction after fans were found using laser pointers or similar devices during the match. This contravenes Article 17.2.d of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, leading to a fine of 5,000 Swiss Francs. FIFA noted that such disciplinary decisions are issued based on the circumstances of each case and remain subject to appeal.

The organisation also clarified that public summaries of sanctions are mainly for media information, while official rulings are communicated directly to the federations concerned.

The Nigeria-DR Congo match has continued to generate discussion after it ended Nigeria's World Cup qualification hopes. The Super Eagles were eliminated last November following a penalty shootout loss to the Leopards in the final round of the African qualifying play-offs.

Following the defeat, the NFF lodged a formal petition with FIFA questioning the eligibility of several DR Congo players. The federation argued that domestic laws in DR Congo do not recognise dual citizenship for adults, raising concerns about players holding European passports while representing the Leopards.

NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi stated, "As far as FIFA is concerned, once you have the passport of your country, you are eligible. But our concern is that FIFA may have been deceived into clearing them."

Meanwhile, National Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko urged caution, noting that DR Congo's listing for the intercontinental play-offs does not indicate a final verdict on Nigeria's petition.

He reassured Nigerians, saying FIFA has channels to communicate sensitive decisions and expressed hope that the Super Eagles could still secure a spot in the World Cup if the eligibility case is upheld.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification intensifies, both Nigeria and DR Congo remain under close scrutiny ahead of the final stages of the tournament.