FIFA fines Nigeria, DRC over fans' misconduct at World Cup playoffs

Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) have been sanctioned by FIFA following incidents involving supporters during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff match in November.

In its latest disciplinary overview, FIFA confirmed that both national associations were found guilty of breaches of its disciplinary code stemming from fans’ behaviour during African World Cup playoff final won by DR Congo on penalties.

According to the ruling, Nigerian supporters threw objects onto the pitch during the match. FIFA determined that the act violated Article 17 and Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. As a result, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was fined 1,000 Swiss francs.

The Congolese FA received a heavier sanction after FIFA found that its supporters used laser pointers during the game, an offence that contravenes Article 17.2.d of the disciplinary code. The federation was consequently fined 5,000 Swiss francs.

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FIFA noted that each decision was reached based on the specific merits and circumstances of the individual cases, adding that the rulings remain subject to appeal.

However, the disciplinary summary made no reference to Nigeria’s protest concerning the alleged fielding of ineligible players by DR Congo, an issue the NFF had reportedly raised after the match.

NFF tabled a petition before FIFA accusing the Congolese FA of deceit in clearing players for its national team, despite their status contravening the country’s citizenship laws.

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The federation added that some of the “fraudulently registered” players played for DR Congo at the playoffs.

FIFA is yet to rule on the issue, and DR Congo has already announced its squad for the interconfederational playoffs, scheduled for later this month.

DR Congo have been paired with the winners of the Jamaica-New Caledonia match. The final game will secure one of the final tickets to the World Cup.

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