**FIFA Responds to NFF's Appeal Against DR Congo** Nigeria's football enthusiasts, get ready for an update on the controversy surrounding our national team. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had earlier lodged an appeal to the world football governing body, FIFA, over the eligibility of certain players from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) who played against Nigeria in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff match. FIFA has now issued its response to the NFF's appeal, and according to the NFF, the governing body has rejected their petition. However, the NFF had already started the process of appealing this decision, as they are not satisfied with the outcome. The initial verdict by FIFA dismissed the claims made by the NFF, allowing DR Congo's result to stand. The controversy began after the NFF discovered that some DR Congo players were allegedly fielded in the playoff match despite being ineligible. The NFF presented a petition to FIFA, citing a case of passport fraud, where certain players were issued passports that qualified them for the playoffs. However, FIFA has maintained its original stance, indicating that there is no immediate reversal of the earlier verdict. The appeal process is now set to proceed through FIFA's established judicial channels for further review. Meanwhile, DR Congo continues to prepare for the next stage of the qualification process, leaving uncertainty over the outcome of the appeal. For Nigerian football fans, this development is a major setback. However, the NFF's resolve to continue pursuing the appeal is reassuring. It remains to be seen how this saga will unfold, but one thing is certain - the passion and dedication of Nigerian football supporters will not be diminished by this setback.