The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has sanctioned the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Congolese Association Football Federation (FECOFA) for breaches of FIFA match organisation rules during the 2026 World Cup qualifying play‑off between the two countries.
The qualifying play‑off tie between Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) took place as part of the final round of qualifying matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
FIFA’s regulations require participating teams and their member associations to comply with match organisation, media and operational standards set by the governing body.
FIFA’s disciplinary process follows reports of breaches submitted by match officials and inspectors who oversee compliance with organisational protocols around international matches.
In a statement issued by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, the governing body said the NFF and FECOFA breached specific regulatory requirements related to match organisation.
FIFA said both associations failed to organise pre‑match meetings with match officials and delegations as required by its regulations.
The body also said the associations did not ensure attendance of team officials at the mandatory pre‑match briefings.
The disciplinary decision included sanctions against both federations for these breaches.
FIFA imposed a fine of 5,000 Swiss francs on the NFF. The DR Congo federation was fined 10,000 Swiss francs, according to the statement from the football governing body.
In addition to the fines, FIFA directed both associations to ensure strict compliance with match organisation and briefing requirements in future international matches.
FIFA said the disciplinary action was taken following review of reports submitted by match officials after the final qualifying tie.
The statement noted that all member associations are obligated to follow FIFA competition and organisation regulations, including protocols for meetings, briefings and official attendance.
The sanctions underscore FIFA’s enforcement of regulatory compliance among member associations during international competitions.
Both federations are required to respond to the disciplinary measures and ensure adherence to the directives ahead of future World Cup qualifiers and other FIFA‑sanctioned matches.
