FIFA on Tuesday launched the 100-day countdown to the 2026 World Cup, still silent on Nigeria’s petition against DR Congo on players’ eligibility.

Silence Hurts Nigerian

For millions of football-loving Nigerians, the celebratory announcement was overshadowed by continued silence regarding the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) petition against DR Congo.

Nigerian football fans, the silence has deepened the frustration, leaving Nigerians uncertain about the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualification hopes.

Only 100 days remain before kickoff, yet Nigeria is still awaiting a ruling after FIFA deferred judgement on the NFF’s complaint over the alleged fielding of ineligible players by DR Congo during the CAF play-off final for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Countdown Begins to Historic 2026 Tournament

In a post on its official X account, FIFA wrote: “The biggest-ever @FIFAWorldCup is just 100 days away! 48 teams. 104 games. 11 June to 19 July.”

The tournament will kick off on June 11 in Mexico City at the iconic Estadio Azteca. The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, the first time three nations will co-host the men’s World Cup. It will also be the first tournament expanded to 48 teams, featuring a record 104 matches.

Nigeria’s Petition Still Pending

While qualified nations intensify preparations, FIFA has yet to determine Nigeria’s fate concerning its disputed play-off against DR Congo.

The Super Eagles lost the play-off on penalties in November 2025, with DR Congo advancing to the intercontinental playoffs.

The NFF subsequently petitioned FIFA in December 2025, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players, including former England youth internationals Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe, citing concerns over dual citizenship regulations and FIFA eligibility rules.

NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi has maintained that the federation is confident of a favourable outcome.

“We have a good case,” Sanusi said during a radio interview. “We don’t venture into what we know is an exercise in futility. As far as we are concerned, we have a strong case, and we are waiting for what FIFA will say regarding the complaints we have lodged.”

More than two months after the petition was filed, and with DR Congo preparing for intercontinental playoff fixtures later in March, FIFA has yet to issue an official ruling.

Clock Ticking on Super Eagles’ Hopes

Nigerian fans have been urged to remain calm, noting that FIFA often delivers disciplinary verdicts close to competition windows. Similar cases, such as the Teboho Mokoena eligibility ruling against South Africa, were decided just days before crucial qualifying matches.

However, with the 100-day clock ticking and the intercontinental playoffs set for late March, the window for a favourable Nigerian resolution is closing fast.

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup gathers momentum globally, uncertainty continues to cloud Nigeria’s participation, with millions of fans anxiously awaiting clarity from world football’s governing body. (BusinessDay)

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