FIFA has officially announced the final list of teams for the inter-confederation play-off tournament, confirming Democratic Republic of the Congo as Africa’s representative and ending Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
The decision was revealed in an accreditation notice sent to journalists ahead of the competition. In the document, FIFA detailed the tournament format and named the six participating countries, with DR Congo representing the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
This development effectively shuts the door on Nigeria’s hopes, following a protest by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The federation had contested their defeat in the CAF play-offs in November 2025, claiming that DR Congo used ineligible players during the crucial encounter.
The match ended 1-1 before Nigeria was eliminated via a penalty shootout. The NFF’s appeal sought to overturn the outcome and secure the Super Eagles’ place in the inter-confederation play-offs. However, FIFA’s latest confirmation appears to have brought the matter to a close.
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