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FIFA has sanctioned both Nigeria and DR Congo following disciplinary breaches during their 2026 World Cup qualifying match.
DR Congo defeated Nigeria 4–3 on penalties in Morocco to advance to the intercontinental play-offs.
According to FIFA’s disciplinary report, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was fined 1,000 Swiss francs for spectator misconduct, including the throwing of objects during the match, in violation of Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
DR Congo faced a penalty of 5,000 Swiss francs after supporters used laser pointers and other electronic devices, breaching Article 17.2.d of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle also accused DR Congo officials of using voodoo rituals following Nigeria’s defeat.
“During all the penalty sessions, the guy from Congo did some voodoo,” Chelle said.
“Every time, so this is why I was a little nervous after him.”
The sanctions add pressure on FIFA to rule on Nigeria’s protest against DR Congo over the alleged use of ineligible players.
Nigeria filed the complaint on December 15, 2025, complaining about nationality switches for several overseas-born players, including Lionel Mpasi, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, Arthur Masuaku, Samuel Moutoussamy, and Cédric Bakambu.
While DR Congo prepares for the World Cup play-offs against the winner of New Caledonia and Jamaica on March 31, they have dropped two of the disputed players, Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Mario Stroeykens, from their 26-man squad.
