Nigerian football figures have called for a return to the drawing board after FIFA dismissed the nation's appeal against the Democratic Republic of Congo following their qualifiers loss in November 2025.
Nigeria’s hopes of returning to the World Cup qualifying playoffs suffered a setback after FIFA dismissed the country’s appeal against DR Congo national football team.
The appeal followed claims that Congo used ineligible players during a qualifying match in November.
However, FIFA ruled that Congo would keep their place in the playoffs, while also issuing sanctions.
Sports Administrator, Coach and the Chairman of Rangers Football Foundation, Ebere Amaraizu said FIFA likely made its decision after carefully reviewing its rules.
“FIFA… have their rules and schedules… having looked at it critically… they came up with a full resolution,” he said to our correspondent.
He added that Nigeria is “unsatisfied about the verdict” and may still take the matter further to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
However, he warned that time could be a problem, as the playoffs may begin before any new ruling is made.
FIFA-licenced agent and President of the Nigeria Pitch Award, Shina Phillips, added that the decision is painful but should spur Nigeria towards fixing its football system instead of relying on appeals.
“With this decision… we should pull back and just get back to the game mode,” he said.
Phillips stressed the need for better planning and development.
“We need to come back to the drawing board… define the direction of football… and build from the grassroots,” he added.
Nigeria, a three-time African champion, has struggled in recent years to qualify for major tournaments despite its strong football history.
Experts say even if the appeal continues, the bigger issue is how to rebuild Nigerian football for long-term success.
