Ex-Super Eagles Star Raises Alarm Over FIFA's Pending Ruling Against DR Congo
Former Super Eagles defender Ben Iroha has voiced significant concerns regarding FIFA's ongoing delay in issuing a ruling on Nigeria's formal petition against the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Nigeria Football Federation filed the complaint, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during the critical 2026 World Cup qualification playoff matches.
Uncertainty Over Player Eligibility and World Cup Integrity
The central allegation from the NFF contends that DR Congo violated eligibility rules by selecting players like Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe. The federation argues that Congolese law prohibits dual citizenship, which could render these players ineligible for the national team. This petition represents Nigeria's last hope for World Cup qualification after the Super Eagles were eliminated in a penalty shootout last November.
Speaking from his base in Texas, Ben Iroha emphasized the disruptive nature of the prolonged uncertainty. "It's just a week to the end of February, yet we're yet to hear from FIFA what their verdict is on such a crucial matter," Iroha stated in an interview with Pulse Sports. "We expected that by now, FIFA would have come out with its verdict based on its findings, so that the team that its verdict eventually favoured would begin planning and preparation."
Journalist Echoes Concerns Over Preparation Disruption
UK-based Nigerian journalist Samuel Omaenikun has reinforced Iroha's apprehensions, highlighting how the delay impacts both players and federation planning. "The delay in FIFA's ruling is becoming a serious issue. Players need clarity to focus on preparations, and the fans are left guessing what might happen," Omaenikun explained to Legit.ng.
He further stressed the importance of timely decisions for competitive integrity: "World Cup qualification is a once-in-four-years opportunity, and dragging the process risks disrupting both the team's rhythm and the broader planning that goes into such critical matches. For the integrity of the competition, it's important that FIFA issues a decision soon."
High Stakes for Nigeria's World Cup Aspirations
The potential consequences of a favorable FIFA ruling for Nigeria are substantial. If the petition succeeds, the Super Eagles would advance to an intercontinental play-off scheduled for March, where they would face either New Caledonia or Jamaica. Victory in that match would secure Nigeria's seventh appearance at the FIFA World Cup finals, placing them in Group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia in the expanded 48-team tournament.
Despite the uncertainty, Iroha maintains optimism about Nigeria's chances. "Why not? FIFA has a set of rules and procedures on issues relating to players' nationality switches," he remarked. "The Nigeria Football Federation, which filed the petition in the first place, did not just wake up and begin to write a petition. They must have gone through the rule book and checked their facts properly."
Opposition from Congolese Federation and Broader Context
The Congolese Football Federation has firmly rejected Nigeria's petition, characterizing it as an attempt to "win via the back door." Meanwhile, FIFA has confirmed that the matter remains under active review but has not provided a specific timetable for announcing its final decision.
In related developments, Nigeria's World Cup qualification hopes have received additional attention from Confederation of African Football circles. Mauritius Football Association president Samir Sobha has called for the removal of CAF Secretary General Véron Mosengo-Omba, though the direct connection to Nigeria's petition remains unclear.
The ongoing situation leaves Nigerian football fans in a state of suspended anticipation, balancing hope for a favorable ruling with frustration over the procedural delays that could impact their team's preparation for what remains a viable path to the 2026 World Cup.
