The football governing body Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has sanctioned both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Congolese Football Association following disciplinary breaches during their 2026 FIFA World Cup African play‑off match in Morocco last November.
FIFA’s disciplinary overview found Nigeria guilty of a breach relating to order and security at matches after spectators were reported to have thrown objects during the game. As a result, the NFF was fined 1,000 Swiss francs.
DR Congo received a heavier sanction, with a fine of 5,000 Swiss francs after its supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices in contravention of disciplinary regulations.
The play‑off final, which saw DR Congo advance with a 4–3 victory on penalties, had already been contentious on and off the pitch. Nigeria lodged a formal complaint with FIFA after the match, alleging that several overseas‑born players fielded by DR Congo were ineligible under qualification rules.
The sanctions come amid anticipation of a separate FIFA verdict on Nigeria’s protest. If upheld, the decision could affect the result of the play‑off and potentially reopen Nigeria’s path to World Cup qualification.
DR Congo is now preparing for its next stage in the qualification process, while Nigeria awaits FIFA’s ruling on its eligibility complaint.

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