Nigeria’s World Cup Dream Crashes as FIFA Confirms DR Congo for 2026 Play-Offs

FIFA has officially confirmed the final line-up for the inter-confederation play-off tournament for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, naming DR Congo as Africa’s representative and effectively ending Nigeria’s hopes of qualification.

In an accreditation notice issued to journalists ahead of the competition, FIFA listed the six participating nations as Bolivia, DR Congo, Iraq, Jamaica, New Caledonia and Suriname.

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The confirmation follows a protest by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), which challenged Nigeria’s defeat in the CAF play-offs in November 2025. The Super Eagles had played a 1-1 draw with DR Congo before losing on penalties.

The NFF alleged that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during the decisive tie and sought to have the result overturned.

However, FIFA’s latest communication made no reference to any amendment to the qualified teams, indicating that the original outcome stands and that Nigeria’s appeal was unsuccessful.

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In a statement, FIFA said the play-off tournament will feature six teams battling for the final two spots at the 2026 World Cup, to be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.

With the final list now confirmed, Nigeria will not feature at the 2026 tournament.

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