**FIFA Gives Boost to DR Congo as Super Eagles' 2026 World Cup Hopes Take a Hit** The world of football has taken a dramatic turn, and Nigeria's chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have taken a hit. According to a recent interview published by FIFA, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) is now firmly seen as Africa's representative in the inter-confederation play-off tournament. This news has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian football community, particularly the Nigeria Football Federation, which had earlier lodged a protest regarding the outcome of the qualification process. In the interview, DR Congo's head coach Sébastien Desabre expressed confidence in his team's chances of securing a place at the tournament in North America. The Leopards will face off against either Jamaica or New Caledonia in the play-off final on March 31 in Guadalajara, Mexico. To get to this point, they will play a warm-up match against Bermuda on March 25. The FIFA interview has effectively confirmed that DR Congo will be the African team participating in the play-off competition. This development is a worrying sign for Nigeria, which had been hoping that the decision might be reconsidered. The Super Eagles' chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup now seem slim, and it's clear that the Nigerian football community will be watching the DR Congo's play-off match with bated breath. Desabre's team is preparing for the high-stakes clash, and the coach spoke to FIFA about the challenge ahead. He expressed confidence in his team's ability to take on any opponent and secure a spot at the World Cup. While the outcome of the play-off match is far from certain, one thing is clear: the stakes are high, and the DR Congo team will need to be at the top of their game if they are to secure a historic qualification.