FIFA has officially sanctioned both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Congolese Football Federation following incidents of fan misconduct during the 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoff final between Nigeria and DR Congo on November 16, 2025, in Morocco.
DR Congo advanced after a dramatic 1-1 draw (after extra time) and a 4-3 penalty shootout victory, but the match was overshadowed by disciplinary breaches from supporters of both teams.
Details of the Sanctions
- Nigeria was fined 1,000 Swiss Francs (CHF) for fans throwing objects onto the pitch. This contravenes Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (order and security at matches).
- DR Congo received a heavier fine of 5,000 Swiss Francs (CHF) after supporters used laser pointers to distract players. This violates Article 17.2.d of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
FIFA emphasised that the decisions were made “based on the specific merits and circumstances of the individual cases.” Both federations have the right to appeal the rulings. No stadium bans or other sporting sanctions were imposed.
Context of the Match
The highly charged playoff was not without controversy. Nigeria has lodged a separate formal protest with FIFA, claiming DR Congo fielded up to nine ineligible players who allegedly violated citizenship and eligibility regulations. FIFA is still reviewing this complaint and is yet to issue a verdict on the eligibility issue.
DR Congo has since named its squad for the intercontinental playoff against the winner of the Jamaica vs New Caledonia tie, with the victor securing one of the final berths at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the USA.
FIFA’s Official Statement
“The decisions were reached based on the specific merits and circumstances of the individual cases.”
The sanctions serve as a reminder of FIFA’s zero-tolerance policy toward fan misconduct, even several months after the incident occurred.
