Nigeria’s bid to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially come to an end after FIFA released the confirmed list of nations set to compete in the inter-confederation play-off tournament, with DR Congo named as Africa’s representative.
The announcement, contained in an accreditation update issued ahead of the play-offs and obtained by ENigeria Newspaper, finalised the six countries that will battle for the last two available spots at the expanded tournament to be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.
With DR Congo included among the qualified teams, there is no pathway left for Nigeria, whose football federation had disputed the outcome of their earlier CAF play-off meeting. The Nigeria Football Federation lodged a protest following a 1-1 draw that ended in a penalty shootout defeat, alleging the use of ineligible players by their opponents.
However, FIFA’s latest communication made no indication of any review or alteration to the result, effectively confirming that the original outcome stands.
According to the governing body, the play-off event will feature six nations: Bolivia, DR Congo, Iraq, Jamaica, New Caledonia and Suriname. The mini-tournament will determine the final two qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.
Fixtures are scheduled to begin on March 26, when New Caledonia face Jamaica and Bolivia take on Suriname. DR Congo will enter the fray on March 31, playing the winner of the New Caledonia–Jamaica tie for a place at the global showpiece.
The confirmation closes the chapter on Nigeria’s appeal and leaves the Super Eagles watching the remainder of the qualification race from the sidelines.
