FIFA confirms DR Congo’s place in 2026 World Cup intercontinental play-off despite NFF protest

The global football governing body, FIFA, has confirmed that the Democratic Republic of the Congo will participate in the intercontinental play-off for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite a formal protest submitted by the Nigeria Football Federation, Sport360NG reports.

The confirmation emerged in an interview published on FIFA’s official website with DR Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre ahead of the decisive play-off match scheduled for March 31 in Guadalajara, Mexico.

The Nigerian federation had earlier lodged a complaint with FIFA alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during their encounter with the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles. The protest sparked optimism among Nigerian supporters that the outcome of the match could be reviewed, potentially giving Nigeria another opportunity to compete for a place at the World Cup.

However, FIFA has yet to publicly comment on the protest while continuing with preparations for the intercontinental play-off involving the Congolese side.

Desabre’s interview effectively indicates that DR Congo remain on course for the crucial fixture that will determine whether they qualify for the 2026 World Cup finals in North America.

Nicknamed the Leopards, the Congolese side are seeking to return to the global tournament for the first time in more than five decades. Their only previous appearance came in the 1974 FIFA World Cup when the country, then known as Zaire, exited the competition at the group stage without scoring a goal.

Speaking ahead of the decisive encounter, Desabre expressed confidence in his team’s preparation and determination.

“We’re really fired up. We’re still on course to meet our main objective,” he told FIFA. “This final will be our 13th match since our qualifying campaign began. It’s been a long road and we’ve worked our way through every stage.”

The French tactician also credited the squad’s collective resilience for their progress through the qualification process.

“I can’t point to just one defining moment,” he said. “It’s about everything we’ve been through together, the highs and the lows. Those experiences have made us stronger and brought us to this point.”

Desabre further highlighted the team’s defensive solidity, noting that DR Congo have conceded just one goal in their last four qualifying matches, which he attributed to strong unity within the squad and commitment to a shared ambition.

“The players share a strong bond both on and off the pitch,” he added. “Everyone is pulling in the same direction to achieve a common goal.”

DR Congo booked their place in the play-off after eliminating Nigeria in the CAF play-off round, winning on penalties following a 1–1 draw after extra time.

To secure qualification for the World Cup, the Leopards must win one final match in Guadalajara against either the Jamaica national football team or the New Caledonia national football team.

Desabre acknowledged the magnitude of the opportunity but stressed the need for focus and composure.

“We all want to go to the World Cup, but we can’t let our emotions take over,” he said. “What matters is performing well on the day and giving everything on the pitch to make Congo proud.”

Victory in the play-off would secure DR Congo’s second appearance at the World Cup and end a 52-year wait to return to football’s biggest stage.