Nigeria’s World Cup hopes hang in the balance as FIFA delays ruling on NFF protest over DR Congo players’ nationality switch.

Uncertainty continues to surround the Super Eagles’ chances of participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup intercontinental play-off as the team awaits a final decision from world football governing body, FIFA.

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has said he and his teammates remain ready to make Nigerians proud despite the uncertainty currently hanging over their qualification hopes.

Nigeria initially fell short in the African play-off final in November 2025 after losing 4–3 on penalties to DR Congo, a result that ended their automatic path to the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

However, a possible lifeline emerged after the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) filed a petition challenging DR Congo’s advancement to the intercontinental play-off. The NFF alleged that some players in the Congolese squad may have made improper nationality switches.

Ndidi noted that the players are staying focused while awaiting FIFA’s ruling amid growing anticipation across the country.

The petition has been with FIFA since December 2025, but the global football body has yet to issue a verdict, even as only 20 days remain before the scheduled intercontinental play-off in Mexico.