The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has reaffirmed its confidence in the appeal lodged against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) over the alleged fielding of ineligible players during last November’s Africa World Cup play-off final.
Speaking on Friday, the General Secretary of the NFF, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, assured Nigerians that the federation has a strong and credible case before football’s governing authorities.
Sanusi stressed that the NFF would not have pursued the appeal if it lacked merit, noting that all relevant documents and evidence were duly submitted.
He disclosed that FIFA has not rejected Nigeria’s petition and that the federation is currently awaiting a final decision, expected in February.
According to him, the Super Eagles still have a realistic chance of qualifying for the World Cup, pending the outcome of the appeal.
Sanusi, who spoke to Brila FM, reiterated that the NFF remains hopeful of a favourable verdict, urging Nigerians to remain patient as the process runs its course.
The appeal centres on allegations that DR Congo fielded ineligible players in the decisive play-off fixture, a claim which the NFF insists violated competition regulations.
Nigeria failed to qualify for the World Cup following the play-off defeat but is seeking redress through the appeal process.