FIFA has sanctioned the Nigeria Football Federation and the DR Congo Football Federation due to disciplinary incidents that happened during the match, four months after the controversial 2026 FIFA World Cup African play-off final between the national football teams of Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

DR Congo defeated Nigeria 4-3 on penalties in Morocco to go to the intercontinental play-offs.

According to FIFA’s most recent disciplinary summary for World Cup qualifiers, both the NFF and the Congolese FA were found guilty of various offences during the match on November 16, 2025.

FIFA said that Nigeria was penalised for a breach relating to order and security at matches, specifically involving the throwing of objects by spectators under Article 17 and Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, and the NFF was consequently fined 1,000 Swiss francs.

On their part, the DR Congo federation received a heavier sanction after supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match.

The act contravenes Article 17.2.d of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, leading FIFA to impose a 5,000 Swiss francs fine on the Congolese body.

FIFA noted that disciplinary sanctions are determined based on the specific circumstances of each case, and these decisions remain subject to appeal.

Nigeria is still waiting for FIFA to decide on their protest against DR Congo.

The NFF complained after Nigeria lost 4–3 on penalties to the Leopards in the African playoff final in Morocco.

They claim some DR Congo players might not have been eligible, including Lionel Mpasi, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, Arthur Masuaku, Samuel Moutoussamy, Cédric Bakambu, Noah Sadiki, and Nathanaël Mbuku.

The NFF says the Congolese FA may have given false information to get these players cleared.

The decision could change Nigeria’s World Cup hopes.

Nigeria has questioned why some players were allowed to play for DR Congo just before an important playoff, even though they had been called up by Nigeria earlier.

DR Congo is set to play the winner of Jamaica vs. New Caledonia for a spot in the 2026 World Cup.

Shehu Dikko, head of Nigeria’s National Sports Commission, says fans shouldn’t worry yet and FIFA hasn’t decided on Nigeria’s petition, and the Super Eagles’ fate could still change.