FIFA has sanctioned Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo following incidents involving supporters during their 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff clash in November.
In its latest disciplinary report, FIFA said both football federations were found to have violated provisions of its disciplinary code due to the behaviour of their fans during the African playoff final, which DR Congo eventually won via penalties.
The global football body stated that Nigerian supporters threw objects onto the pitch during the encounter, an action that breached Article 17 and Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. Consequently, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was fined 1,000 Swiss francs.
Meanwhile, the Congolese Football Association received a stiffer penalty after its supporters were found to have used laser pointers during the match. FIFA said the act contravened Article 17.2.d of its disciplinary code, leading to a fine of 5,000 Swiss francs.
FIFA noted that each ruling was based on the unique circumstances of the case and emphasised that the decisions remain open to appeal.
However, the disciplinary report did not address Nigeria’s protest over the alleged use of ineligible players by DR Congo during the playoff.
The NFF had previously lodged a petition with FIFA accusing the Congolese football authorities of misrepresenting the eligibility status of certain players selected for the national team.
According to the federation, some of the “fraudulently registered” players were involved in the playoff match.
FIFA has yet to issue a ruling on the complaint. Meanwhile, DR Congo has already unveiled its squad for the upcoming intercontinental playoff scheduled for later this month.
In the next round, DR Congo will face the winner of the match between Jamaica and New Caledonia, with the victor securing one of the final places at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
