Nigeria’s football community is growing increasingly restless as FIFA continues to delay a verdict on the eligibility dispute arising from last November’s Africa 2026 World Cup play-off involving DR Congo—a decision that could yet revive the Super Eagles’ qualification hopes.

The case, lodged by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in December, centres on allegations that the DR Congo national football team fielded players who were ineligible under Congolese law, which prohibits dual citizenship. Those named include Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe, among others alleged to hold foreign passports.

DR Congo defeated Nigeria on penalties to advance to an intercontinental play-off against either Jamaica or New Caledonia. However, the NFF insists the Leopards breached FIFA regulations by presenting players whose nationality status contravenes domestic law.

NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi said Nigeria’s position remains firm. “The Congolese law does not allow dual nationality, yet some of their players hold European and French passports. Our contention is that FIFA was misled into clearing them,” he stated.

The Congolese Football Federation has rejected the complaint, describing it as an attempt by Nigeria to “win through the back door.”

While FIFA has acknowledged receipt of the protest and confirmed it is reviewing the matter, no timeline has been given for a final decision. NFF Director of Communications Ademola Olajire clarified that speculation about a verdict is unfounded. “Any claims that a ruling has been made are false. FIFA has not communicated any decision to us or to the Congolese federation,” he said.

The implications are significant. Nigeria, bronze medallists at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, risks missing a second consecutive World Cup, while DR Congo is chasing its first appearance at the global tournament since 1974, when it competed as Zaire.

Analysts warn that a delayed administrative ruling could overturn on-field outcomes and disrupt preparations for all teams involved. African football analyst Mamadou Gaye, speaking on SuperSport’s Soccer Africa programme, urged patience among Nigerian fans, citing precedents.

“FIFA decisions can take time. Remember when South Africa’s Bafana Bafana had points deducted at the last minute. Nigeria should remain calm and prepared,” he advised.

The prolonged review has ignited debate on social media. Some supporters have expressed resignation, arguing that qualification should have been secured on the pitch, while others fear Nigeria’s World Cup hopes are already over. A growing number of fans are calling for a shift in focus to future competitions.

The uncertainty is also affecting Jamaica, whose football federation is reportedly monitoring the situation closely ahead of the intercontinental play-off scheduled for March. Officials have warned that a late decision could complicate logistics, training plans and tactical preparations.

As the countdown to the decisive fixtures continues, Nigeria’s fate remains unresolved. Whether the Nigeria national football team secures a dramatic reprieve or bows out through administrative channels now rests with FIFA’s long-awaited verdict.