FIFA has imposed fines on Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo following incidents involving their supporters during a 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff held in November.
According to a disciplinary report released by FIFA, both teams were found to have violated sections of the FIFA Disciplinary Code due to fan behavior during the match, which DR Congo won on penalties.
The Nigeria Football Federation was fined 1,000 Swiss francs after Nigerian fans were reported to have thrown objects onto the pitch. FIFA stated that this act breached Articles 17 and 17.2.b of its regulations.
Meanwhile, the Congolese Football Association received a higher fine of 5,000 Swiss francs. This followed findings that its supporters used laser pointers during the game – an offense FIFA said violated Article 17.2.d.
FIFA noted that the penalties were determined based on the nature and severity of each incident, adding that both decisions can still be appealed.
The report did not address a separate protest filed by Nigeria concerning the alleged use of ineligible players by DR Congo during the playoff.
