Omotayo Fashola
Renowned football expert Mamadou Gaye has called for calm among Nigerian supporters as FIFA deliberates on the country’s formal complaint against DR Congo after their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff clash.
Following Nigeria’s agonizing shootout loss, the NFF lodged a strong appeal with football’s governing body, citing fielding violations involving multiple DR Congo squad members during the decisive encounter.
With the next international fixtures approaching rapidly, FIFA’s delayed ruling has created growing tension within the Nigerian setup, affecting players, officials, and passionate fans alike.
The African giants are pinning their World Cup qualification hopes on a favorable verdict that could revive their campaign for the global tournament.
Gaye referenced FIFA’s recent sanction against South Africa, where Bafana Bafana were docked points for fielding ineligible player Teboho Mokoena, with the decision coming just before their final group stage matches.
Speaking on SuperSport’s Soccer Africa show, Gaye remarked, “The football community must respect FIFA’s process. South Africa’s penalty was imposed at the eleventh hour, showing these decisions take time.”
As the wait continues, Nigeria has arranged preparatory matches against World Cup-bound Asian sides Iran and Jordan during the same period as the intercontinental playoffs.
Gaye emphasized the importance of due process, noting that any dissatisfied party retains the right to appeal FIFA’s decision through the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
The ultimate resolution could see DR Congo face the victors of the New Caledonia-Jamaica playoff, with a coveted World Cup berth awaiting the successful team.
