FIFA has imposed fines on Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo after fan misconduct marred their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification playoff final in November, which DR Congo won on penalties.
The Nigeria Football Federation faces a 1,000 Swiss franc penalty for supporters throwing objects onto the pitch, breaching Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The Congolese Football Association received a steeper 5,000 Swiss franc fine for fans using laser pointers, violating Article 17.2.d.
FIFA noted the sanctions were determined based on each case’s circumstances, with both decisions open to appeal.
The disciplinary report made no mention of Nigeria’s separate protest alleging DR Congo fielded ineligible players with fraudulent citizenship registrations. FIFA has yet to rule on this complaint.
Meanwhile, DR Congo has named its squad for the intercontinental playoff against the Jamaica vs New Caledonia winner, competing for one of the final 2026 World Cup slots.