FIFA fines Nigeria, DR Congo over fans’ misconduct at World Cup playoffs

FIFA has sanctioned Nigeria Football Federation and the Congolese Football Association following incidents involving supporters during their 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff in November.

In its latest disciplinary report, FIFA said both federations were found to have breached provisions of its disciplinary code due to the behaviour of fans during the African playoff final, which Democratic Republic of the Congo won on penalties against Nigeria.

According to FIFA, Nigerian supporters threw objects onto the pitch during the match, an action that violated Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. As a result, the Nigerian federation was fined 1,000 Swiss francs.

The Congolese federation received a heavier sanction after FIFA ruled that its supporters used laser pointers during the game, an offence that contravenes Article 17.2.d of the code. Consequently, the Congolese FA was fined 5,000 Swiss francs.

FIFA said the sanctions were determined based on the specific merits and circumstances of each case, noting that the rulings remain subject to appeal.

However, the disciplinary summary did not address Nigeria’s protest regarding the alleged use of ineligible players by DR Congo during the match.

The Nigerian federation had earlier filed a petition accusing the Congolese FA of misrepresenting the eligibility of some players despite concerns over their citizenship status under the country’s laws.

According to the NFF, some of the allegedly “fraudulently registered” players featured for DR Congo in the playoff.

FIFA has yet to issue a decision on the matter.

Meanwhile, DR Congo has announced its squad for the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for later this month, where it will face the winner of the tie between Jamaica and New Caledonia. The match will determine one of the final qualification spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. ⚽