FIFA has confirmed the final lineup for the inter-confederation play-off tournament, with DR Congo representing Africa. This decision effectively ends Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. The Nigeria Football Federation had lodged a formal protest, alleging DR Congo fielded ineligible players in their CAF play-off match, which ended 1-1 before Nigeria lost on penalties ยน ยฒ ยณ.
The six teams competing in the play-offs are Bolivia, DR Congo, Iraq, Jamaica, New Caledonia, and Suriname. The tournament kicks off on March 26 in Mexico, with the teams vying for two spots at the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

