FIFA reportedly cited the use of an incorrect email channel among the technical grounds for dismissing Nigeria’s protest against the Democratic Republic of Congo over the alleged use of an ineligible player in the World Cup qualifiers.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles lost to DR Congo 4-3 on penalties after both sides played out a 1-1 draw after extra time in the playoff final, with DR Congo securing a place in the intercontinental playoff.
The controversy centres on DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi and questions surrounding his eligibility to switch international allegiance from France to Congo before featuring in the crucial encounter.
According to a report by The New York Times on Thursday FIFA dismissed Nigeria’s protest on technical grounds, including the timing and manner in which the complaint was submitted.
A highly placed source at the National Sports Commission (NSC) reportedly said FIFA identified the fact that Nigeria’s petition was sent to the General Secretary rather than through the designated legal portal as one of the grounds for the dismissal.
The development has generated criticism, with questions being raised over FIFA’s handling of the protest and the procedures required for submitting such complaints.
The source argued that correspondence and petitions are ordinarily routed through the General Secretary, who can subsequently respond to member associations or direct complaints to the appropriate department.
Another ground reportedly cited by FIFA was that Nigeria’s complaint was filed after the prescribed deadline.
The decision has heightened debate over whether procedural requirements should prevent the substantive examination of allegations involving the eligibility of a player in a major World Cup qualification fixture.
Nigeria had hoped that a successful protest could alter the outcome of the playoff and potentially revive the country’s World Cup qualification hopes.
However, FIFA’s decision means DR Congo retains its place in the intercontinental playoff unless Nigeria succeeds in any further challenge available under the relevant regulations.
