The DR Congo Football Association (FECOFA) has responded sharply after the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) submitted a petition to FIFA, challenging the eligibility of several Congolese players during the World Cup playoff final in November.
Nigeria alleges that six DR Congo players, including former Manchester United stars Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe, breached national regulations on dual citizenship, making them ineligible despite FIFA clearance.
In an official statement posted on social media, FECOFA accused Nigeria of trying to “win from the back door” through legal manoeuvres after failing on the pitch.
The Congolese federation emphasised that the World Cup must be played with dignity and dismissed claims of rule violations.
FECOFA’s stance drew mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians criticising the use of allegedly ineligible players.
Meanwhile, DR Congo’s football director, Herita Ilunga, reiterated that the team has complied with FIFA regulations and urged Nigeria to focus on AFCON 2025 preparations rather than contesting the playoff results.
