FIFA has officially named DR Congo as Africa’s representative in the inter-confederation play-off tournament for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying through the final available route.
The confirmation was contained in an accreditation notice released on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, detailing the structure and participants for the six-nation play-off scheduled for March 26 to March 31, 2026, in Mexico.
The tournament will decide the last two places at the expanded 48-team World Cup, set for June 11 to July 19, 2026, in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
DR Congo occupies Africa’s sole slot in the play-off draw, alongside Bolivia, Iraq, Jamaica, New Caledonia and Suriname.
REWD ALSO: Nigeria Awaits FIFA Verdict As DR Congo Case Revives Hopes
Nigeria’s challenge followed its elimination in the CAF play-off round on Sunday, November 16, 2025, after a 1–1 draw that was settled 4–3 on penalties in favour of the Congolese side.
The Nigeria Football Federation subsequently filed a protest, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players and seeking a reversal of the result.
FIFA’s confirmation of the final line-up, however, signals that the outcome stands.
The decision brings Nigeria’s qualification campaign to a close and confirms that the Super Eagles will not feature at the 2026 finals.