Why Nigeria Must Wait: Gaye explains FIFA’s late decision on DR Congo Case
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These games are scheduled around the same time as the intercontinental playoff matches. Gaye reassured fans that Nigeria’s case should continue as planned, adding that if a team loses a case at FIFA, it still
African football expert, Mamadou Gaye, has advised Nigerians to remain patient while waiting for FIFA to decide on Nigeria’s complaint against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) after their African playoff final in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The Super Eagles lost to DR Congo in a tense penalty shootout. After the match, Nigeria officially submitted a complaint to FIFA, claiming that DR Congo fielded players who were not eligible to play, including Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
With less than three weeks left before the international match window, FIFA has yet to make a ruling. This delay has left fans, players, and officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) feeling anxious and uncertain about the team’s next steps.
Gaye pointed out that delays in FIFA decisions are not unusual. He cited the example of South Africa’s Bafana Bafana, who lost three points in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers for using an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena. The decision came very close to the last matches of Group C, showing that FIFA often finalizes rulings at the last moment.
Speaking on the SuperSport Soccer Africa program, Gaye said, “We should wait for FIFA to make the decision. Remember that Bafana Bafana had points taken away right at the last minute. Nigeria should remain calm and prepared.”
The NFF has meanwhile confirmed that the Super Eagles will play friendly matches against Iran and Jordan next month.
These games are scheduled around the same time as the intercontinental playoff matches. Gaye reassured fans that Nigeria’s case should continue as planned, adding that if a team loses a case at FIFA, it still has the option to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
If FIFA rules in favor of DR Congo, the team will face the winner of the playoff between New Caledonia and Jamaica. The victor of that match will secure a place in the 2026 World Cup.
As the world waits for FIFA’s ruling, Nigeria hopes for a fair decision that could restore their chance to compete on football’s biggest stage.
Meanwhile, the team and supporters continue to prepare for upcoming matches and tournaments.
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