Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been dashed after FIFA officially confirmed DR Congo as Africa’s representative in the inter-confederation play-off tournament.
In an accreditation notice circulated to the media, FIFA listed the six countries that will compete for the final two qualification spots — with Nigeria notably absent.
The confirmation effectively ends the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) protest over their November 2025 CAF play-off defeat to DR Congo.
The NFF had challenged the result of the tie, which ended 1-1 before DR Congo triumphed on penalties, alleging the use of ineligible players and seeking reinstatement into the play-offs.
However, FIFA’s latest communication contains no amendment to the qualified teams, signaling that the original outcome stands.
FIFA confirmed that Bolivia, DR Congo, Iraq, Jamaica, New Caledonia and Suriname will participate in the play-off tournament scheduled for March 26–31, 2026, in Guadalajara and Monterrey, Mexico.
Under the format, the four lowest-ranked teams — Bolivia, Jamaica, New Caledonia and Suriname — will compete in bracket semi-finals, while DR Congo and Iraq advance directly to the final stage. DR Congo are now just one match away from securing a historic place at the expanded 48-team World Cup.
For Nigeria, the confirmation brings months of uncertainty to a close, with FIFA’s decision effectively closing the door on any late route to the global showpiece co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Packaged By Lanre Olabisi
