By Achile Danjuma
World football governing body FIFA has sanctioned both Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo following incidents of crowd disorder during their recent 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff.
The high-stakes encounter, which saw DR Congo advance to the intercontinental playoff after a 4-3 penalty shootout victory following a 1-1 draw after extra time, was marred by unsporting behavior from supporters of both nations.
According to a disciplinary report released by FIFA, its judicial bodies imposed sanctions on each football association for specific breaches of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
The Nigeria Football Federation was fined CHF 1,000 after its fans were found to have breached security and order at the match, and for the throwing of objects. These actions violated Article 17, paragraph 2(b) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
The Congolese Football Association (FECOFA) received a heftier fine of CHF 5,000. This penalty was issued after its supporters used laser pointers or similar electronic devices to distract Nigerian players, an infraction of Article 17, paragraphs 2(c) and 1 of the same code.
While FIFA noted that some of its disciplinary decisions are subject to appeal, the governing body did not specify whether the rulings involving Nigeria and DR Congo fall into that category.
The Zurich-based organization has remained silent on a separate petition lodged by Nigeria, which alleged that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during the decisive playoff match.
Following their victory over the Super Eagles, DR Congo has since named its squad for the upcoming intercontinental playoff tournament. The competition is set to take place in Mexico later this month, where the final two spots for the 2026 World Cup will be determined.