World football governing body, FIFA, has punished both Nigeria Football Federation and Congolese Association Football Federation following disciplinary problems during the controversial 2026 World Cup playoff between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Leopards of Democratic Republic of Congo.
Nigeria was found guilty of failing to properly control the behavior of the spectators.
According to FIFA, some fans threw objects during the match, an action that breaks Article 17 of FIFA Disciplinary Code. Because of this, the NFF was fined 1,000 Swiss francs.
The Congolese Federation received a stronger punishment. The supporters were reported to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the game.
This is also against FIFA’s disciplinary rules, especially Article 17. 2. d, and led to a 5’000 Swiss francs fine.
FIFA noted that each decision was reached based on specific merits and circumstances of the individuals cases, adding that the rulings remain subject to appeal.
However, the disciplinary summary made no reference to Nigeria’s protest concerning the alleged fielding of ineligible players by DR Congo, an issue the Nigeria Football Federation, had reportedly raised after the match.
NFF tabled a petition before FIFA accusing the Congolese FA of deceit in clearing players for its national team, despite their status contravening the country’s citizenship laws.
The Federation added that some of the “fraudulently registered” players played for DR Congo at the play off.
FIFA is yet to rule on the issue, and DR Congo has already announced its squad for the inter-confederation playoffs, scheduled for later this month.
DR Congo have been paired with the winners of the Jamaica-New Caledonia match. The final game will secure one of the final tickets to the World Cup.
-9News Nigeria.
