The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has formally petitioned FIFA over the eligibility of Aaron Wan-Bissaka and several other players fielded by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), a move that could significantly alter Nigeria’s World Cup qualification fate.
In an official complaint submitted by the NFF General Secretary, Dr. Sanusi Mohammed, Nigeria raised concerns regarding the nationality status of Wan-Bissaka and other Congolese internationals, questioning whether they met FIFA’s eligibility requirements to represent DR Congo.
According to the petition, the NFF claims that Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s switch of international allegiance was not fully completed, alleging that the defender still holds a European passport. Nigeria further argues that Congolese law reportedly does not permit dual citizenship, casting doubt on Wan-Bissaka’s eligibility to feature for DR Congo.
The federation also alleges that several DR Congo players possess French passports, which, if proven to conflict with Congolese nationality laws and FIFA regulations, could have serious implications for the Central African nation.
Nigeria has recent precedent in such matters. The Super Eagles previously won a high-profile case against South Africa, which resulted in a points deduction that reshaped the qualification standings. In addition, Eritrea’s withdrawal from the qualifiers enabled Nigeria to finish as one of the best second-placed teams, keeping their playoff hopes alive.
With the DR Congo petition now before FIFA, the stakes could not be higher. A favorable ruling would dramatically shift the qualification landscape, while an unfavorable one would bring Nigeria’s campaign to a close.
As the football world waits for FIFA’s decision, tension continues to build, with fans and stakeholders keenly watching what could become another landmark ruling in African football qualification history.
For now, all eyes remain on FIFA as the drama unfolds.