FIFA's Disciplinary Committee has dismissed Nigeria's protest concerning the eligibility of several players used by Congo DR during last November's African World Cup playoff, the Nigeria Football Federation announced. The NFF stated it has immediately commenced the appeals process after receiving the committee's decision rejecting its petition. The ruling means Congo DR, who defeated Nigeria 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw to advance to the intercontinental playoff stage, will face the winner of the New Caledonia vs. Jamaica semifinal on March 31st for a World Cup spot in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Nigeria's complaint, joined by Cameroon, alleged between six and nine players improperly switched allegiances, holding European passports despite Congolese law prohibiting dual nationality. The NFF contended FIFA was misled into clearing the players, who held valid Congolese passports, arguing FIFA's regulations differ from Congolese domestic law. Congo DR has not commented publicly on the ruling.