The qualification saga of the Super Eagles for the 2026 World Cup has taken a new turn. Although the Nigerians were defeated on the pitch, they still hold hope for a favorable outcome thanks to the appeal lodged with FIFA.
Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, the Secretary General of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), has firmly denied rumors claiming that Nigeria’s appeal against the DRC was rejected. The federation is contesting the eligibility of several Congolese players who participated in the last playoff, citing a possible administrative irregularity related to their sporting nationality.
According to the NFF, the case is still under review at FIFA’s headquarters in Zurich. The final verdict, expected in February, could be crucial for the future of the Super Eagles. If Nigeria’s arguments are deemed valid by the global body, Nigeria could be reinstated to compete in the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March 2026.
For now, the entire country is holding its breath, waiting for this legal decision, seen as the last chance for Nigeria to participate in the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The suspense is palpable, and hope remains alive among Nigerian supporters.
