Nigeria and DR Congo face fines from FIFA following a contentious 2026 World Cup Qualifier

FIFA has imposed fines on both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Congolese Association Football Federation after their intense 2026 World Cup qualifier on 16 November 2025.

Nigeria was fined 1,000 Swiss francs after fans interrupted the match by throwing objects onto the pitch, while DR Congo faced a larger penalty of 5,000 Swiss francs for supporters using laser pointers during the game.

FIFA emphasized that they assess these penalties individually and allow for appeals.
The match has been closely examined ever since Nigeria’s aspirations for the World Cup were dashed in a penalty shootout.

Following the defeat, the NFF submitted an official petition to FIFA, raising concerns about the eligibility of multiple players from DR Congo.

The federation asserts that certain players might possess European passports, which could potentially clash with DR Congo’s domestic regulations regarding dual citizenship.

NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi emphasized that the petition focuses on maintaining transparency in player eligibility, while the Chairman of Nigeria’s National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, called for calm.

He observed that FIFA typically informs the federations of sensitive rulings prior to their public announcement.

The roster of players being evaluated features Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Mario Stroeykens, both of whom were conspicuously missing from DR Congo’s most recent 26-man squad.

At the same time, DR Congo is getting ready to confront the victor of the semi-final clash between New Caledonia and Jamaica on 31 March.

FIFA’s final decision, still awaited due to the ongoing dispute, maintains the tension of qualification and prompts inquiries about the journey to the 2026 World Cup.