FIFA has handed down sanctions to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the DR Congo Football Association as a result of disciplinary events during their 2026 World Cup qualification play-off last year.
The key fixture that determined the outcome was held on November 16, 2025, at the Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, where the DR Congo national football team emerged victorious against the Nigeria national football team 4-3 on penalties and secured a spot in the intercontinental play-offs. Nigeria was ahead through a goal by Frank Onyeka, but Meschack Elia scored for DR Congo, sending the game to the penalty shootout.
Based on FIFA’s disciplinary report, the NFF was fined 1, 000 Swiss francs after their supporters were proven to be the ones who threw objects during the game, violating Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
On the other hand, the Congolese federation were handed a more severe penalty of 5, 000 Swiss francs as their fans were seen using laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match, which is against the regulations of Article 17.2.d.
The fines are issued as Nigeria is still disputing DR Congo’s qualification. The NFF lodged an official protest stating that several foreign-born players, including Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe, were only given the green light to play for DR Congo a few days before the critical play-off match.
FIFA noted that disciplinary decisions depend on the details of the individual case and may still be appealed.
