World Cup 2026 – Nigeria’s appeal against DR Congo: FIFA’s decision is still pending.

As the Nigerian national team is announced for a friendly tournament in Amman, the long-awaited FIFA decision regarding the appeal against DR Congo could disrupt its international calendar.

Earlier this week, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the participation of the Super Eagles in a four-nation invitational international tournament, scheduled in Amman, Jordan. The host nation will be joined by Iran and Costa Rica for this friendly competition, scheduled during FIFA’s next men’s international window.

Problem: this period coincides with the World Cup intercontinental play-offs. A delicate situation, especially since the NFF filed a complaint to FIFA after Nigeria’s elimination against DR Congo in the African play-offs, decided by penalties. The Nigerian body contests the alleged use of ineligible players by the Congolese team.

This uncertainty fuels the fans’ concerns. Of course, the NFF is in uncertainty, like all of us, said Ope Adebari, sports analyst, journalist and producer at News Central, to the Daily Post. According to him, the decision to maintain participation in the Jordanian tournament can be understood. “It makes sense to move to the next step and include the Super Eagles in this four-nation tournament, as they prepare for their participation in the next Africa Cup of Nations,” he explained.

Remaining a major question: why is FIFA delaying its verdict in the dispute between the NFF and DR Congo? ‘I am quite curious to know why the verdict announcement has taken so long,’ continued Adebari. ‘This waiting period has given way to rumors. I know the panel members met two weeks ago, but since then, it’s radio silence.’

The analyst nevertheless calls for pragmatism. ‘In my view, the Nigerians should move forward. I do not think any of the Congolese players had dubious documents regarding their citizenship.’ Whatever the final verdict, its consequences will be significant. ‘If Nigeria’s appeal is accepted, that would mean the team will participate in the intercontinental playoff for the World Cup, which will be held in Mexico’, he concluded. ‘That would also mean that the Super Eagles could not participate in the four-nation tournament scheduled in Jordan.’