Naija News • 1d ago
World Cup playoffs: NFF set to appeal FIFA decision on petition against DR Congo
**NFF Plans to Take FIFA to Appeal Court Over World Cup Playoffs Decision**
In a recent development, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has expressed dissatisfaction with FIFA's decision on a petition filed against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) over alleged match-fixing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs.
Recall that DR Congo is set to face Nigeria in the intercontinental playoff in Mexico from March 27 to 31. However, the NFF has announced that it will be challenging the decision made by FIFA's Disciplinary Committee on March 17.
According to the NFF, they have received the decision but are not pleased with FIFA's ruling, which rejected their petition. The NFF claims that there was a case of fraud in the issuance of passports to several DR Congo players, allowing them to qualify for the playoffs.
It's worth noting that FIFA had earlier sanctioned both the DR Congo Football Association and the NFF for separate offenses during the playoff match played on November 16, 2025. However, the NFF is not satisfied with the outcome and has begun the process of appealing the decision.
The NFF's decision to appeal is a significant development, and fans are eagerly waiting to see how the situation unfolds. As the playoff match approaches, the fate of Nigeria's qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup hangs in the balance. The NFF's determination to challenge FIFA's decision is a testament to their commitment to ensuring that justice is served and that the integrity of the game is upheld.