World football’s governing body, FIFA, has sanctioned Nigeria national football team and DR Congo national football team over breaches of its regulations during their 2026 World Cup qualifiers continental playoff clash.
The match ended 1–1 after extra time, before DR Congo defeated Nigeria 4–3 on penalties, with both sides’ supporters accused of misconduct during the encounter.
According to a disciplinary report released by FIFA, its judicial bodies found Nigeria guilty of breach of order and security as well as the throwing of objects during the match, actions that violate Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
“Nigeria was sanctioned for breach of order and security and the throwing of objects during the match, contrary to Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code,” the report stated.
The Nigerian side was subsequently fined 1,000 Swiss Francs.
Meanwhile, DR Congo was penalised for the behaviour of its supporters, who were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices to target Nigerian players during the match.
FIFA said the conduct breached Article 17.2.c and Article 17 of its disciplinary regulations.
“DR Congo was charged for its fans’ use of laser pointers or similar electronic devices to target Nigerian players pursuant to Article 17.2.c and Article 17,” the disciplinary report added.
The Congolese side received a 5,000 Swiss Francs fine, a significantly higher penalty than that imposed on Nigeria.
FIFA noted that some of its disciplinary rulings are subject to appeal, but did not indicate whether the sanctions imposed on Nigeria and DR Congo fall within that category.
The Zurich-based body also remained silent on a petition reportedly filed by Nigeria accusing DR Congo of fielding ineligible players during the playoff match.
With the victory, DR Congo secured qualification for the intercontinental playoff, where they will compete in a tournament scheduled to take place in Mexico later this month to determine the final two teams that will qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
