One of the technical grounds cited by FIFA for dismissing Nigeria’s protest against DR Congo over the use of an ineligible player during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers was that the petition was allegedly sent through the wrong communication channel.
DR Congo edged Nigeria 4-3 on penalties in the decisive playoff after both sides played out a 1-1 draw following extra time, securing a place in the intercontinental playoff.
According to a report by The New York Times, FIFA had internally determined that DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi did not fully satisfy the requirements needed to switch his international allegiance from France to DR Congo before representing the Central African nation.
Despite the eligibility concerns, FIFA dismissed Nigeria’s complaint on what it described as technical grounds, including the timing and manner in which the petition was submitted.
A source within the National Sports Commission (NSC) disclosed that FIFA argued the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) sent its protest to the office of the FIFA General Secretary instead of the governing body’s designated legal portal.
The source, however, questioned the reasoning, noting that official complaints and correspondence are typically routed through the General Secretary’s office before being directed to the appropriate department for further action.
FIFA also reportedly maintained that Nigeria’s complaint was filed outside the stipulated timeframe, another factor that contributed to its rejection.
The decision has continued to generate debate, particularly following revelations that FIFA officials were aware of concerns surrounding Mpasi’s eligibility before DR Congo completed their qualification campaign.
The controversy has reignited discussions over FIFA’s disciplinary processes and whether procedural technicalities should outweigh substantive eligibility issues in cases that could significantly impact the outcome of major international competitions.
