Nigeria's FIFA Petition Over DR Congo's Ineligible Players Sparks Controversy

Nigeria has lodged a complaint with FIFA, claiming that the Democratic Republic of Congo used ineligible dual-nationality players during a World Cup qualification play-off, violating local criteria. DR Congo denies these allegations, stating that FIFA cleared the players under standard regulations.

Nigeria has submitted a petition to FIFA, accusing the Democratic Republic of Congo of fielding ineligible players during the African qualification play-off for next year's World Cup, according to a spokesperson from the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF). The NFF alleges that several dual-nationality players were unlawfully cleared to represent DR Congo.

These players allegedly possess European passports—French and Dutch among them—which contradicts Congolese rules prohibiting dual-nationality exclusions. The NFF claims that FIFA was misled into approving these players and suggests wrongful compliance with local football regulations. DR Congo's football federation dismissed these claims, emphasizing the integrity of competition.

Despite DR Congo's denial, FIFA has yet to comment on the allegations. The next World Cup will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, where teams will vie for a place in the expanded 48-team finals.

(With inputs from agencies.)