Social Media User Demands FIFA Disqualify Nigeria and DR Congo from 2026 World Cup
A Nigerian man has ignited a fiery debate across social media platforms by publicly calling for FIFA to disqualify both Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo from the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. His controversial statement was made just ahead of FIFA's impending decision regarding a formal petition filed by Nigeria against DR Congo.
The petition centers on allegations that the Congolese national team fielded ineligible players during the critical 2026 World Cup qualification playoffs. As the global football community awaits FIFA's ruling, the man, identified online as @StarBede, took to his social media account to voice his unexpected opinion.
Unusual Reasoning Behind the Call for Disqualification
In a post that has since gone viral, @StarBede argued that neither the Nigerian Super Eagles nor the DR Congo national team are worthy of securing a place in the prestigious tournament. His exact statement read: "Can FIFA disqualify both Congo and Super Eagles? They are not worthy of a World Cup spot."
This bold declaration has drawn significant attention, as it comes at a time when Nigerian football authorities are actively seeking DR Congo's disqualification based on the alleged rule violations. The man's perspective suggests a broader critique of both teams' performances and merit, rather than focusing solely on the legal technicalities of the eligibility case.
Mixed Reactions from the Online Community
The call for dual disqualification has elicited a wide range of responses from social media users, reflecting diverse opinions on the matter.
- @papi_demillie commented: "Personally, the Dr Congo guys needed it more than us on that very day. But it’s likely it might go our way if the allegations of fielding ineligible players by the Congolese team is substantial. Personally, I think we ain’t ready."
- @Urchpupi stated: "Nigeria didn’t do enough to earn a place at the World Cup. Our performance in the qualifiers simply wasn’t strong enough. However, if Congo truly fielded ineligible players, that is completely unacceptable. The rules must always be respected."
- @Newdawn234 shared: "There shouldn't be high hopes anyway. How is it even possible that Dr Congo will make such a mistake knowing they could be disqualified? Nigerians from time immemorial like to 'hope'. Let's see how it pans out."
- @tobasthetruth noted: "Going to the world through this means makes it look like the 2023 election. Nigeria should wait for its turn. Once we win all our matches, qualifications will not come through this process."
- @iAmPODii added: "Oh wow. People must know something that we don't know. I can't wait to see what that ruling is going to be. I just hope it is what we are all expecting."
Background on the FIFA Eligibility Case
The controversy stems from Nigeria's formal complaint to FIFA, accusing the Democratic Republic of Congo of utilizing players who did not meet eligibility requirements during their World Cup qualifying matches. FIFA is currently reviewing the evidence and is expected to announce its verdict shortly, which could potentially alter the qualification landscape for the 2026 tournament.
In related developments, reports indicate that some individuals have turned to artificial intelligence to predict the outcome of the case, while others have conducted independent research suggesting Nigeria has a high probability of success. One analyst reportedly claimed Nigeria has an 85–90% chance of winning the petition, citing Congo's laws regarding dual citizenship as a key factor.
As the situation unfolds, football fans and officials alike are closely monitoring FIFA's next move, which will determine whether either team faces disqualification and how the 2026 World Cup qualification process will be affected.
