World Cup 2026: Iroha Expresses Concern Over FIFA’s Delay On NFF Petition Against DR Congo

Former Nigeria international defender Ben Iroha has voiced his apprehension regarding FIFA’s prolonged silence on the petition filed by Nigeria against DR Congo.

The petition alleges that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during their 2026 World Cup qualification play-off in Morocco, and the delay in a verdict is proving “worrisome” for Iroha.

Speaking from his base in Texas, USA, Iroha emphasised the potential impact of this delay on the Super Eagles’ planning and preparation for the intercontinental play-off, which is scheduled for next month, March.

“It’s just a week to the end of February, yet we’re yet to hear from FIFA what their verdict is on such a crucial matter,” Iroha, a winner of the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations with the Super Eagles told completesports com. “We expected that by now, FIFA would have come out with its verdict based on its findings in the matter so that the team that its verdict eventually favoured would begin planning and preparation for the intercontinental play-off next month.”

He further elaborated on the uncertainty facing both nations: “Now, Super Eagles are in suspense. DR Congo are in suspense, with barely one week before February comes to an end. Knowing the crucial nature of a World Cup qualification game, I think by now the two parties should have known their fate and then settle down for preparation on how to get the job done.”

When asked about his optimism for a favourable decision for the Super Eagles, Iroha responded affirmatively. “Why not? FIFA has a set of rules and procedures on issues relating to players’ nationality switches. And the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), who filed the petition in the first place, did not just wake up and begin to write a petition. They must have gone through the rule book and checked their facts properly.”