FIFA fines Nigeria, DR Congo over match misconduct

Four months after their meeting in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying play-off, the football authorities of Nigeria and DR Congo have been sanctioned by over disciplinary incidents recorded during the match.

In its latest disciplinary overview for World Cup qualifying fixtures, the global football governing body said both federations were found guilty of separate violations during the encounter played on November 16, 2025.

The Nigerian football authority, , was penalised for a breach related to order and security at matches after spectators were reported to have thrown objects during the game.

According to FIFA, the offence contravened Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, leading to a fine of 1,000 Swiss francs imposed on the Nigerian federation.

On the other hand, the received a heavier sanction after its supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match.

The action violated Article 17.2.d of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, prompting FIFA to impose a fine of 5,000 Swiss francs on the Congolese body.

FIFA noted that disciplinary rulings are determined based on the circumstances surrounding each case and may still be subject to appeal by the parties involved.

The organisation added that the publicly released disciplinary summary is intended primarily to inform the media, while the official legal decisions have been formally communicated to the football federations concerned.