Nigeria’s chances of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup are still very much alive, following fresh clarity on an eligibility case involving the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) that is yet to be decided by FIFA.
Checks as of January 27, 2026, indicate that the petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over DR Congo’s alleged use of ineligible players during the World Cup qualifying playoffs is still under active consideration. Contrary to rumours making the rounds online, the case has neither been dismissed nor concluded.
The petition is understood to focus on six DR Congo players whose eligibility during the playoff phase has been questioned by the NFF.
According to reports, FIFA is expected to issue a final decision in February 2026, when an official announcement will be made public. 
The outcome of the case could have serious implications for Africa’s qualification picture. DR Congo is currently scheduled to play a decisive playoff match in March 2026 against the winner of the intercontinental tie between Jamaica and New Caledonia, with the victor securing the final World Cup ticket. Any negative ruling against DR Congo before then could significantly alter the race.
Adding to the confusion are unverified reports that emerged after the controversial AFCON 2025 final between Senegal and hosts Morocco. Some claims suggested possible sanctions against Senegal, including a World Cup ban, with Nigeria allegedly set to benefit. However, there has been no official confirmation of such reports, and they remain speculative.
For now, Nigeria’s clearest path back into contention hinges on FIFA’s ruling in the DR Congo eligibility case. Until a formal decision is announced, the Super Eagles remain in limbo but their World Cup hopes are not yet over. As February draws closer, all eyes remain on FIFA, whose verdict could yet reshape Africa’s final qualification landscape.
