FIFA has sanctioned Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo following incidents involving supporters during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff match in November.
In its latest disciplinary overview, FIFA confirmed that both national football associations were found guilty of breaching its disciplinary code due to the behaviour of their fans during the African World Cup playoff final, which DR Congo won on penalties.
According to the ruling, supporters of the Nigeria national football team threw objects onto the pitch during the match.
FIFA said the act violated Article 17 and Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, resulting in a fine of 1,000 Swiss francs for the Nigeria Football Federation.
The Congolese Association Football Federation, which governs football in DR Congo, received a heavier sanction after FIFA found that its supporters used laser pointers during the match, an offence that contravenes Article 17.2.d of the disciplinary code.
The federation was consequently fined 5,000 Swiss francs.
FIFA stated that the decisions were taken based on the specific merits and circumstances of each case and noted that the rulings remain subject to appeal.
However, the disciplinary report made no reference to Nigeria’s protest over the alleged use of ineligible players by DR Congo during the playoff.
The Nigeria Football Federation had earlier submitted a petition accusing the Congolese FA of fraudulently registering players who were allegedly ineligible under the country’s citizenship laws.
FIFA is yet to deliver a ruling on the matter.
Meanwhile, the DR Congo national football team has already announced its squad for the upcoming intercontinental playoffs, where it will face the winner of the match between the Jamaica national football team and the New Caledonia national football team for one of the final qualification spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.