World Cup Dream Over: FIFA Rejects Nigeria’s Appeal, Confirms DR Congo for Play-offs

FIFA has officially unveiled the final six-team line-up for the inter-confederation play-off tournament, confirming Democratic Republic of the Congo as Africa’s representative — a decision that effectively ends Nigeria’s bid to reach the 2026 World Cup.

In an accreditation notice issued to journalists ahead of the competition, FIFA outlined the structure of the tournament and named the participating nations, shutting the door on any lingering uncertainty.

DR Congo’s confirmation means there is no available slot for Nigeria, whose football authorities had sought to overturn their elimination in the November 2025 CAF play-offs.

The Nigeria Football Federation had filed a formal protest following the decisive tie, which ended 1-1 before Nigeria fell on penalties. The federation alleged that DR Congo fielded ineligible players and urged FIFA to review the outcome, hoping to secure a place for the Super Eagles in the inter-continental play-offs.

However, with Wednesday’s announcement, FIFA has now settled the matter.

“The FIFA World Cup 2026 Play-Off Tournament will see six teams fight it out for the final two places at the FIFA World Cup 2026™, to be staged in Canada, Mexico and the United States across 16 Host Cities,” the governing body stated.

FIFA further confirmed that Bolivia, DR Congo, Iraq, Jamaica, New Caledonia and Suriname will compete for the remaining two tickets to the expanded global showpiece.

The play-off tournament is scheduled to kick off on March 26, marking the final hurdle for teams still chasing a place at the historic 48-nation World Cup.