The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has vowed to continue its legal battle after FIFA rejected Nigeria’s protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo over their World Cup playoff clash.

Nigeria had filed a petition challenging the outcome of the match, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during the decisive encounter, which saw the Super Eagles eliminated from the qualification race.

However, FIFA’s decision to dismiss the protest has upheld the original result, allowing DR Congo’s progression in the qualifiers to stand.

Reacting to the ruling, the NFF expressed disappointment but insisted the matter is far from over. The federation confirmed it has initiated a fresh appeal, maintaining that there were clear irregularities regarding the eligibility status of some Congolese players.

According to Nigerian football authorities, the players in question may not have fully satisfied nationality requirements despite being cleared to represent DR Congo. The NFF argues that the integrity of the qualification process must be protected and that the case warrants further scrutiny.

On their part, DR Congo’s football officials have denied any wrongdoing, insisting that all players used in the match were duly eligible under FIFA regulations.