World football governing body FIFA has sanctioned both the Nigeria Football Federation and the DR Congo Football Federation over disciplinary breaches that occurred during their tense 2026 World Cup African play-off clash.
The sanctions were announced in FIFA’s latest disciplinary overview covering the qualifying matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The controversial encounter between the Nigeria national football team and the DR Congo national football team took place on November 16, 2025, in Morocco, where DR Congo defeated Nigeria 4–3 on penalties to secure a place in the intercontinental play-offs.
According to FIFA, both football bodies committed separate infractions during the match, which followed a heated contest between the two sides.
The Nigerian federation was penalised for failing to maintain order and security during the game after spectators were found to have thrown objects onto the field. The incident violated Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
As a result, the Nigeria Football Federation was fined 1,000 Swiss francs.
The Congolese football body received a heavier penalty after supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match. The action breached Article 17.2.d of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
FIFA subsequently imposed a fine of 5,000 Swiss francs on the DR Congo Football Federation for the misconduct.
The match itself generated significant controversy after the defeat ended Nigeria’s hopes of progressing further in the qualification campaign.
In the aftermath, Eric Chelle, head coach of the Super Eagles, publicly accused Congolese officials of resorting to “voodoo” practices during the match, a claim that added further tension to an already heated rivalry.
