African football analyst Mamadou Gaye has played down concerns over FIFA’s delayed ruling in the case lodged by Nigeria against DR Congo, insisting that such timelines are normal in high-stakes World Cup qualifying disputes.
The Leopards booked their place in the next phase of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers after edging Nigeria in a dramatic penalty shootout victory. However, celebrations were tempered after the Super Eagles submitted a formal protest to FIFA, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible dual-national players, including Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
As the international match window approaches, FIFA has yet to communicate a final decision—leaving DR Congo in a holding pattern despite having won the tie on the pitch.
Speaking on SuperSport’s Soccer Africa, Gaye urged patience and expressed confidence that the Congolese camp has little to fear.
“This is not strange. Let’s wait for FIFA to decide. We have seen rulings made at the eleventh hour before.”
Gaye referenced a recent African qualifying precedent involving South Africa, who were docked points late in the process after fielding Teboho Mokoena while ineligible, highlighting that FIFA verdicts often arrive close to deadlines.
Despite Nigeria arranging friendly matches against Iran and Jordan during the playoff window, Gaye dismissed suggestions that DR Congo’s qualification status is under serious threat.
“Nigeria can line up three teams if they want. FIFA is still reviewing the case. The Leopards must stay focused and trust the process.”
Gaye also noted that, should Nigeria be dissatisfied with FIFA’s final ruling, the matter could still be escalated to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, a scenario that could further prolong uncertainty.
For now, DR Congo remain on course for the intercontinental playoff, where they are scheduled to face the winner of the tie between New Caledonia and Jamaica, with a coveted spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup firmly within reach.
For the Leopards, the message is clear: the job was done on the field—and confidence remains high as FIFA’s final whistle is awaited.
