FIFA has sanctioned the national teams of Nigeria and DR Congo following disciplinary incidents during their 2026 World Cup continental play-off.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was fined 1,000 Swiss francs after fans were found guilty of throwing objects during the match, breaching FIFA’s disciplinary code on order and security.
Meanwhile, the DR Congo Football Association (Fecofa) received a heavier fine of 5,000 Swiss francs after supporters used laser pointers during the game.
The heated match, played in Rabat, ended 1-1 before DR Congo secured a 4-3 victory on penalties, eliminating Nigeria from World Cup qualification hopes.
Tensions escalated further when Nigeria’s coach Eric Chelle accused DR Congo officials of misconduct, while the NFF also filed a protest over the eligibility of some Congolese players, including Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe.
Despite the controversy, DR Congo remains scheduled to compete in upcoming play-offs as they aim for their first World Cup appearance since 1974.
