Shehu Dikko, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), has stated that Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup now depend on a ruling from FIFA, the world football governing body. This comes after the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) submitted a formal protest to FIFA, alleging that the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) fielded ineligible players during the African play-off final that ended Nigeria’s qualification campaign.
Dikko made the statement on Thursday following a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. During his conversation with journalists, Dikko confirmed that the matter is still unresolved at FIFA, despite Nigeria’s protest.
FIFA’s Role in the Matter
Dikko emphasized that while Nigeria’s competitive World Cup campaign is now considered closed, the legal matter remains pending with FIFA. He stated, “The World Cup is a closed chapter for us competitively, but the legal matter is still pending. The relevant independent bodies within FIFA will decide.”
Dikko’s remarks indicate that, although Nigeria’s qualification campaign officially ended after their penalty shootout loss to DR Congo in the African play-off final, there is still a glimmer of hope for the Super Eagles. The NFF’s protest to FIFA is still under consideration, and a ruling on the matter could lead to Nigeria’s reinstatement for the intercontinental play-offs scheduled for March 2026.
The Possibility of Reinstatement
Despite the competitive campaign being concluded, Dikko expressed optimism about the possibility of Nigeria’s return to the World Cup race. “If FIFA rules in Nigeria’s favor, the Super Eagles will be back in the race for the intercontinental play-offs,” he said.
These play-offs will determine the final teams qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. If FIFA’s ruling is favorable for Nigeria, the team will have the opportunity to secure a spot in the tournament, scheduled to take place in North America.
Options for the NFF if FIFA’s Ruling is Unfavorable
If FIFA’s decision does not go in Nigeria’s favor, the NFF still has the option to challenge FIFA’s ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The CAS, an independent body responsible for resolving sports-related disputes, could mediate or arbitrate the issue according to specialized procedural rules. The NFF would likely explore this option if FIFA’s ruling is not favorable to Nigeria’s qualification hopes.
FIFA’s Pending Decision
As of now, FIFA has yet to issue an official decision on the NFF’s petition regarding the alleged ineligible players in the DR Congo vs. Nigeria play-off match. The NFF is awaiting a response, and much of Nigeria’s World Cup qualification fate hangs in the balance.
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