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FIFA sanctioned both the Nigeria Football Federation and the Congolese Football Association following disciplinary breaches during their 2026 World Cup African play-off match. The world football governing body released its latest disciplinary overview on March 15, 2026, detailing the penalties imposed on both federations.
FIFA stated that Nigeria was penalised for a breach relating to order and security at matches, specifically involving the throwing of objects by spectators under Article 17 and Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. Consequently, the NFF received a fine of 1,000 Swiss francs.
Meanwhile, the DR Congo federation received a heavier sanction after supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match. The act contravened Article 17.2.d of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, leading FIFA to impose a 5,000 Swiss francs fine on the Congolese body.
Background of the Match
The sanctions stemmed from incidents that occurred during the play-off final held on November 16, 2025, in Morocco. DR Congo defeated Nigeria 4–3 on penalties after the match ended in a 1–1 draw, advancing to the intercontinental play-offs while eliminating the Super Eagles from World Cup contention.
Frank Onyeka scored for Nigeria in the third minute, but Meschack Elia equalised for DR Congo after the half-hour mark. The game proceeded to extra time and ultimately a penalty shootout, where DR Congo emerged victorious.
The Voodoo Allegation
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle accused DR Congo officials of using voodoo in the wake of the defeat. Chelle alleged that DR Congo players practiced voodoo during the penalty shootout.”During all the penalties, Congo’s players were doing voodoo. Every time… every time,” Chelle told reporters.
When asked to explain what he witnessed, Chelle gestured with his arm and stated, “Something like that. You know with I don’t know if it’s water or something like that you know.”A representative of DR Congo denied Chelle’s allegation, stating that “there was no issue.”
Ongoing Proceedings
FIFA emphasised that disciplinary decisions are taken based on the circumstances of each case and may still be subject to appeal. The governing body noted that the document summarising the sanctions is intended mainly as information for the media, while the official legal decisions are communicated directly to the parties involved.
The sanctions emerged as Nigeria’s petition against DR Congo regarding the alleged use of ineligible players remained pending. The NFF submitted the complaint on December 15, 2025, asking FIFA to investigate and potentially disqualify DR Congo from the qualification process.
