FIFA Fines Nigeria, DR Congo After Disciplinary Breaches in Heated World Cup Play-Off

World football’s governing body, FIFA, has imposed disciplinary sanctions on the Nigeria Football Federation and the DR Congo Football Federation following incidents that occurred during the tense 2026 World Cup African play-off final between both national teams.

The penalties come four months after the controversial encounter held in Morocco on November 16, 2025, where Nigeria national football team lost to DR Congo national football team 4–3 on penalties, allowing the Congolese side to advance to the intercontinental play-offs.

According to FIFA’s disciplinary report on the World Cup qualifiers, both football federations committed separate violations during the match.

FIFA found the Nigerian federation guilty of failing to maintain proper order and security after spectators reportedly threw objects onto the pitch. The incident breaches Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. As a result, the Nigeria Football Federation was fined 1,000 Swiss francs.

Meanwhile, the DR Congo Football Federation received a heavier sanction. Supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match, an offense that violates Article 17.2.d of the FIFA disciplinary regulations. The Congolese federation was therefore fined 5,000 Swiss francs.

The disciplinary measures come amid ongoing controversy surrounding the match. Nigeria is still contesting the eligibility of some players who represented DR Congo during the play-off.

Head coach of the Nigeria national football team, Eric Chelle, had earlier accused Congolese officials of resorting to “voodoo” practices following Nigeria’s defeat.

In addition, the Nigeria Football Federation formally petitioned FIFA on December 15, 2025, requesting an investigation into the alleged use of ineligible players by DR Congo during the African play-off, particularly in the final match.

The Nigerian federation claims that Congolese authorities may have misled FIFA while securing nationality switches for several overseas-based players shortly before the decisive fixture.