FIFA Sanctions Nigeria, DR Congo Over Crowd Misconduct In 2026 World Cup Qualifier
Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo have been sanctioned by FIFA following disciplinary incidents during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match.
According to FIFA’s latest disciplinary overview for the qualifiers, both the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Congolese Football Association were found guilty of separate infractions during the match played on 16 November 2025.
FIFA stated that Nigeria was penalised for breaching regulations on order and security at matches after spectators were found to have thrown objects during the game. The offence falls under Article 17 and Article 17.2(b) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, and the NFF was consequently fined 1,000 Swiss francs.
The DR Congo federation received a heavier sanction after supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match.
The act contravenes 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 emphasised that disciplinary decisions are taken based on the circumstances of each case and may still be subject to appeal.
The world football governing body also noted that the document summarising the sanctions is primarily intended to inform the media, while official legal decisions are communicated directly to the parties involved.
The Nigeria–DR Congo fixture was among several World Cup qualifying matches worldwide that came under disciplinary scrutiny, with national associations and players sanctioned for offences ranging from crowd disturbances to player misconduct.
