FIFA begins 100-day countdown to 2026 W’Cup, silent on Nigeria-DR Congo verdict
FIFA on Tuesday launched the final 100-day countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the approach of the tournament.
However, the world football governing body did not provide any update on the anticipated disciplinary verdict involving Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a post on its official X handle, FIFA wrote: “The biggest-ever @FIFAWorldCup is just 100 days away! 48 teams. 104 games. 11 June to 19 July.”
It added that June 11, 2026, marks “the opening scene to the greatest show in the world,” referencing the tournament’s first match between Mexico and South Africa.
Photo caption: FIFA begins 100-day countdown to 2026 World Cup. CREDIT: @FIFAcom
Despite the celebratory posts, FIFA’s official account did not mention the pending decision on Nigeria’s complaint against DR Congo over the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The dispute followed Nigeria’s defeat to DR Congo in the African playoff final in November 2025, where the Super Eagles lost on penalties, securing DR Congo’s place in the intercontinental playoffs.
The Nigeria Football Federation subsequently petitioned FIFA in December 2025, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players.
The NFF claimed that former England youth internationals Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe featured for DR Congo in violation of Congolese laws prohibiting dual citizenship and FIFA eligibility rules.
More than two months later, and with DR Congo preparing for intercontinental playoffs later this month—potentially against Jamaica or New Caledonia—FIFA has yet to issue a ruling, although it previously confirmed that the matter was under review.
The delay has drawn criticism in Nigeria, where football stakeholders and fans have expressed frustration over the lack of clarity as the World Cup approaches.
If upheld, Nigeria’s complaint could lead to DR Congo’s disqualification and potentially reinstate the Super Eagles in the qualification process.
