NFF to lodge appeal against Fifa's DR Congo decision with Court of Arbitration for Sport

NIGERIAN Football Federation (NFF) officials have launched an appeal against the recent Fifa decision to dismiss their petition against the Democratic Republic of Congo with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas).

In November last year, the Leopards of DR Congo beat the Super Eagles of Nigeria 4-3 on penalties in the final of the African World Cup playoff at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat after playing a 1-1 draw. With this victory, the Congolese qualified to represent Africa in Fifa's inter-continental play-off taking place later this month in Mexico, from where two teams will qualify for the World Cup.

However, the NFF wrote to Fifa alleging that the Democratic Republic of Congo breached its rules by fielding ineligible players in the play-offs. A petition was sent to Fifa's headquarters in Zurich, requesting that the Congolese be disqualified for fielding ineligible players and although Fifa has not formally responded, it has listed DR Congo as Africa's representative in the tournament.

Earlier today, the NFF confirmed that Fifa had got in touch with it, revealing that the global footballing body's disciplinary committee had dismissed Nigeria's petition. NFF general secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi, added that the federation was not happy with the Fifa ruling so will begin the process of appealing it.

Fifa rules insist that all appeals against its decisions should be made through Cas rather than in open court, to prevent endless legal battles. There will now be one almighty race to get a decision from Cas before the Fifa play-offs which take place between in Mexico between March 26 and 31.

Dr Sanusi said: “We have received the decision of the Fifa disciplinary committee on our petition but we are not satisfied with the decision, which rejected our petition. I want to assure Nigerians that the NFF has immediately commenced the process of appealing the decision.”

Nigeria protested the eligibility of six players in the Congolese squad, citing perceived fraud in the issuance of passports. DR Congo have been drawn to face the winner of the clash between the Jamaica and New Caledonia in the 2026 World Cup intercontinental play-off later this month.