By Ghazali Ibrahim
Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup may have received an unexpected boost following growing uncertainty surrounding DR Congo’s participation in the tournament.
Recent reports indicate that the Central African nation could face possible exclusion from the World Cup or related qualifying arrangements over Ebola outbreaks concerns, sparking renewed optimism among Nigerian football fans.
DR Congo had earlier knocked the Super Eagles out of the African play-off race after defeating Nigeria on penalties in Morocco to secure a place in the intercontinental play-offs.
However, controversy later emerged over allegations that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during parts of the qualification campaign.
Reports claimed FIFA and CAF received petitions from Nigeria questioning the eligibility status of some players used by the Congolese side.
Although no official ruling has yet handed Nigeria a replacement slot as discussions around a possible FIFA investigation have continued to dominate football conversations online. Even the recent report released by FIFA didn’t rule on the petitions submitted by Nigerian government, ending possible hope of fighting for the spot.
Meanwhile, the latest twist now centres on health-related concerns after an Ebola outbreak in DR Congo triggered strict travel restrictions ahead of the World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. U.S. authorities reportedly warned that the Congolese team must comply with a strict 21-day isolation protocol before entering the country.
Officials linked to the White House World Cup task force reportedly stated that any breach of the health protocols could lead to the team being denied entry into the United States, potentially affecting their World Cup participation.
The development has reignited debate among Nigerian supporters, many of whom believe the Super Eagles could still benefit if US denied DR Congo entry over violation of protocols.
Still, football authorities have not officially indicated that Nigeria would automatically replace DR Congo if sanctions are eventually imposed.
The Super Eagles missed out on automatic qualification after a disappointing campaign that forced them into the African play-offs, where they eventually lost to the Congolese side.
