Drama Looms As DR Congo Moves Ahead Amid Nigeria Protest Over Player Eligibility

Nigeria’s objection stems from DR Congo’s 4–3 penalty shootout victory over the Super Eagles in last November’s African play-off final. The NFF is challenging the eligibility of certain Congolese players, alleging an improper change of nationality.

While the dispute remains unresolved, DR Congo have excluded Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Mario Stroeykens from their 26-man squad for the upcoming phase.

Head coach Sébastien Desabre stated that the team is fully concentrated on achieving their World Cup qualification goal. He emphasised that the squad has worked consistently throughout the qualifying campaign and remains determined to complete the journey.

DR Congo will travel to Mexico for the play-offs, with matches set to take place in Guadalajara and Monterrey. Six teams will compete for the final two spots at the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup.

They are scheduled to face either Jamaica or New Caledonia in the play-off final on March 31 in Guadalajara, with qualification on the line.

Desabre expressed confidence ahead of the decisive match, insisting his team fears no opponent. He said they aim to match the level of performance displayed against Nigeria and have already begun analysing potential rivals, while remaining focused on their own preparations.

A win in the play-offs would mark DR Congo’s return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 1974.