FIFA: NFF sent DR Congo petition to wrong email

FIFA reportedly dismissed Nigeria’s protest against DR Congo over the alleged use of an ineligible player in the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff because the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) sent its petition to the wrong email address.

DR Congo defeated Nigeria 4-3 on penalties after their playoff final ended 1-1 following extra time, securing a place in the intercontinental playoff.

According to The New York Times, FIFA found that Nigeria’s complaint against DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi did not meet the requirements concerning his change of nationality from France to DR Congo before he played in the match.
FIFA, however, dismissed Nigeria’s appeal on technical grounds, including the timing of the complaint.

A highly placed source at the National Sports Commission (NSC) told Vanguard that FIFA also cited the fact that the NFF sent its petition to the General Secretary rather than through FIFA’s legal portal.

The source questioned the decision, saying complaints and official correspondence are normally first sent to the General Secretary, who may then respond or direct the matter to the appropriate department.

Another reason given by FIFA was that Nigeria filed the complaint late.

The source described this as another weak reason, arguing that an alleged breach of eligibility rules of such importance should not simply be dismissed on the basis of a deadline.

Nigeria’s dismissal from the World Cup qualification race has generated strong reactions, particularly over FIFA’s handling of the complaint against DR Congo.