FIFA has sanctioned both Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) following incidents involving supporters during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff match in November. In its latest disciplinary overview, the world football governing body confirmed that both national associations were found guilty of breaches of its disciplinary code stemming from fans’ behaviour during the African World Cup playoff final. The match saw the Super Eagles of Nigeria succumb to defeat against DR Congo, losing 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw following extra-time.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was penalised for a breach relating to order and security at matches, specifically involving the throwing of objects by its spectators onto the pitch during the match. FIFA determined that this act violated Article 17 and Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. As a direct consequence of this infraction, the NFF was fined 1,000 Swiss francs.

On their part, the Congolese Football Association received a heavier sanction from FIFA. Its supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the game, an offence that contravenes Article 17.2.d of the disciplinary code. Subsequently, the federation was fined 5,000 Swiss francs for this breach. FIFA emphasised that disciplinary decisions are taken based on the specific merits and circumstances of individual cases, with official legal decisions communicated directly to the involved parties.

Despite these disciplinary actions, FIFA's disciplinary summary made no reference to Nigeria’s protest concerning the alleged fielding of ineligible players by DR Congo. The NFF had reportedly raised this issue after the match, tabling 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. The NFF claimed that some of these “fraudulently registered” players participated in the playoffs, but FIFA has remained silent on this specific petition.

FIFA noted that each disciplinary decision remains subject to appeal. The Nigeria–DR Congo fixture was among several World Cup qualifying matches worldwide that attracted disciplinary scrutiny, with national associations and players sanctioned for a variety of offences. With their victory against Nigeria, DR Congo qualified for the intercontinental playoff and has been paired with the winners of the Jamaica-New Caledonia match, with the final game set to secure one of the last tickets to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.