There is a mix of hope and frustration as Nigeria supporters await Fifa's decision on allegations that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during Africa's 2026 World Cup play-offs. At the time of the protest, NFF general secretary Mohammed Sanusi argued DR Congo had breached Fifa's regulations. Tuanzebe and Wan-Bissaka also subsequently featured for the Leopards at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Morocco. The Congolese Football Federation rejected the NFF's challenge, branding the petition as an attempt to "win via the back door". The Leopards will face either New Caledonia or Jamaica in March's intercontinental play-off, with the winner progressing to the expanded 48-team World Cup and joining Group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan and Colombia.

Source: BBC February 17, 2026 14:19 UTC