World Cup Playoff: DR Congo hit back at Nigeria over FIFA petition allegations

The Democratic Republic of Congo have responded to Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) decision to file a case against them with World governing body FIFA for allegedly fielding ineligible players during their Playoff fixture.

On Wednesday, NFF confirmed they had submitted a petition to FIFA over alleged ‘fraudulent’ practices by the Central Africans. The Leopards qualified for the March intercontinental play-offs after defeating Nigeria 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in extra time.

A statement from NFF through General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi confirmed lodging a complaint. It read in part: “There are players that got theirs (passport) in just two or three months. So, that is to us what we consider as a breach of that regulation and that was why we submitted that (petition).

“The Congolese law says you cannot have dual nationality. Wan-Bissaka has a European passport and there were so many of them that have European passports.

“Some of them French passports, some of them Dutch passports. So, the rules are very clear. We cannot say anything now, but we have submitted our (petition).

“FIFA regulation states once you have a passport of your country, you are eligible but our contention is FIFA was deceived into clearing them. On the basis of what was presented to FIFA, it was on that basis that FIFA cleared them but we are saying it was fraudulent. That is all.”

World Cup has to be played with dignity

However, DR Congo have it back, accusing Nigeria of trying to use the backdoor to participate in the World Cup. In a post on social media, DR Congo said: “If you can’t win on the pitch, don’t try to win from the back door.

“The World Cup has to be played with dignity and confidence. Not with lawyers’ tricks. Bring it on. Allez y les Leopards. Bad losers.”

DR Congo have already been drawn to face the winner of the New Caledonia vs. Jamaica tie, with the victor advancing to Group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia.

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