The FIFA has officially ended the Nigeria national football team hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after confirming the final lineup for this month’s inter-confederation play-off tournament.

According to an accreditation notice circulated to the media on Wednesday, March 4, FIFA outlined the format of the competition and listed the six participating nations. The announcement confirmed the DR Congo national football team as Africa’s representative for the play-off stage.

DR Congo’s inclusion effectively rules out Nigeria’s chances of advancing to the tournament through the play-off route. The Nigeria Football Federation had previously filed a formal protest following their elimination in the Confederation of African Football play-offs in November 2025.

Nigeria’s complaint alleged that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during the decisive tie between the two sides. The match ended in a 1–1 draw before DR Congo secured victory through a penalty shootout.

Despite the protest, FIFA’s confirmation of the participating teams in the inter-confederation play-off means the Super Eagles will not have another opportunity to contest for a place at the 2026 tournament.

The development closes a chapter on Nigeria’s efforts to challenge the outcome of the CAF play-offs and solidifies DR Congo’s path toward the final stage of qualification.