2026 World Cup: FIFA sanctions Nigeria, DR Congo over fan misconduct in qualifier

By Johnson Arua

FIFA has sanctioned the football federations of Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) over disciplinary incidents that occurred during a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between the two nations.

In its latest disciplinary summary covering World Cup qualifying fixtures, the world football governing body disclosed that both federations were found guilty of separate offences during the encounter played on November 16, 2025.

According to FIFA, Nigeria was penalised for failing to maintain order and security at the match after spectators were reported to have thrown objects onto the pitch during the game.

The offence contravenes Article 17 and Article 17.2(b) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. As a result, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was fined 1,000 Swiss francs.

The Congolese Football Federation received a heavier sanction after its supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match. FIFA said the act violated Article 17.2(d) of the Disciplinary Code, leading to a fine of 5,000 Swiss francs for the DR Congo federation.

FIFA noted that disciplinary decisions are taken based on the specific circumstances of each case and may still be subject to appeal.

The football governing body further explained that the publicly released summary of sanctions is primarily intended to inform the media, while the official legal decisions are communicated directly to the federations involved.