2026 World Cup: ‘FIFA’s decision against South Africa came very late’ – Gaye tells Nigeria what to do

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Mamadou Gaye, an expert on African football, has urged individuals to exhibit patience as Nigeria anticipates a FIFA ruling regarding their case against the Democratic Republic of Congo after the African playoff final in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

The Super Eagles experienced a painful defeat via penalty shootout against the Leopards. Subsequently, they lodged an official complaint with FIFA, asserting that DR Congo fielded several ineligible players, including Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

Even though the international match window begins in under three weeks, FIFA has yet to make a decision, leaving fans, players, and the Nigeria Football Federation feeling uncertain and anxious.

Nigeria is optimistic that a favorable decision will assist them in getting back on course to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

According to Gaye, South Africa’s Bafana Bafana lost three points in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers after FIFA discovered they had used an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena. This decision was made just before the final matches of Group C.

During the SuperSport Soccer Africa programme, Gaye stated, “Let’s wait for FIFA to make the decision. You remember the points taken away from Bafana Bafana were done at the last minute.”

In the meantime, the Nigeria Football Federation has announced friendly matches against Iran and Jordan, two Asian teams heading to the World Cup next month, coinciding with the intercontinental playoff games.

Gaye stated that Nigeria’s case should proceed as intended and noted that any team losing the case at FIFA can still appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Once FIFA makes its final decision, DR Congo will face the winner of the playoff between New Caledonia and Jamaica, with that match’s victor securing a place in the World Cup.

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