Nigeria, through the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), had earlier submitted a formal complaint to FIFA questioning the eligibility of Wan-Bissaka and other DR Congo players, citing concerns over nationality switches and dual citizenship laws. The petition, if upheld, could significantly impact the qualification race and potentially reopen Nigeria’s path to the World Cup playoffs.
However, DR Congo have now hit back with a fiery statement that has sparked debate across African football.
“If you can’t win on the pitch, don’t try to win from the back door. The World Cup has to be played with dignity and confidence, not with lawyers’ tricks. Bring it on.”
The statement, widely interpreted as a direct jab at Nigeria, underscores DR Congo’s confidence in their qualification campaign and their belief that the matter should be settled on the field rather than in FIFA’s legal chambers.
The response has added another layer of tension to an already heated situation, with fans divided over whether Nigeria’s move is a legitimate pursuit of sporting justice or an unnecessary legal gamble. Supporters of the Super Eagles argue that FIFA regulations must be strictly followed, while others believe such disputes damage the spirit of competition.
Nigeria has previously benefited from FIFA rulings in qualification disputes, most notably in a case involving South Africa, which resulted in a points deduction. That precedent has fueled optimism among Nigerian fans, even as skepticism grows over the likelihood of another favorable verdict.
As FIFA reviews the petition, both nations await a decision that could reshape the World Cup qualification landscape. For now, the spotlight remains firmly on the controversy, with emotions running high and African football once again at the center of global attention.
Whether this battle is decided in courtrooms or on the pitch, one thing is certain: the drama is far from over.