FIFA is expected to announce its decision next month regarding Nigeria’s formal petition against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following their dramatic 2026 World Cup playoff clash, according to a report by The Telegraph on January 21, 2026.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) lodged the complaint after alleging that DRC fielded ineligible players during the decisive playoff in Rabat, Morocco, in November. The fixture, which ended 1-1 after extra time, saw DRC advance 4-3 on penalties, eliminating Nigeria from the World Cup qualification race.

The NFF claims the eligibility violations breached FIFA regulations and undermined the integrity of the match.

The federation has requested that DRC be disqualified and that Nigeria receive remedies in accordance with FIFA statutes. While specific details of the alleged breaches have not been publicly disclosed, Nigerian authorities insist the case is supported by documentary evidence.

Sources familiar with the matter indicate that senior football administrators are awaiting FIFA’s ruling, expected in February 2026. Nigerian officials are reportedly cautiously optimistic that the claims will receive serious consideration.

Meanwhile, the DRC squad continues preparations for the next stage of World Cup qualification, set to face the winner of the Jamaica vs. New Caledonia playoff in Mexico during the Intercontinental Playoffs in March.