Ogona Anita
FIFA has imposed fines on Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo following incidents involving supporters during their 2026 World Cup qualification playoff match held in November.
The disciplinary report released by the global football governing body confirmed that both nations violated the FIFA Disciplinary Code during the African qualifying playoff final, which DR Congo won on penalties
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was fined 1,000 Swiss francs after Nigerian fans were reported to have thrown objects onto the pitch, contravening Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the code. Meanwhile, the Congolese Football Association received a 5,000 Swiss franc fine after its supporters were found using laser pointers, in violation of Article 17.2.d.
FIFA stated that the sanctions were determined based on the circumstances of each case and noted that the decisions remain subject to appeal.
The report did not reference a separate protest by the NFF regarding the alleged fielding of ineligible players by DR Congo. The Nigerian federation had petitioned FIFA, claiming some DR Congo players were fraudulently registered, but a decision on this complaint is still pending.
DR Congo has already named its squad for the intercontinental playoff, where it will face the winner of the Jamaica versus New Caledonia match for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
