FIFA has handed sanctions to both Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo after disciplinary violations were recorded during their 2026 World Cup qualifying match.
The world football governing body, in its latest disciplinary update covering qualifying fixtures, confirmed that both federations were found culpable for separate offences during the November 16, 2025 encounter.
Nigerian fans were identified as having thrown objects during the match, a violation of order and security regulations stipulated under Articles 17 and 17.2.b of FIFA’s Disciplinary Code. The Nigeria Football Federation was fined 1,000 Swiss francs over the incident.
DR Congo faced a steeper financial penalty after their supporters were caught using laser pointers or comparable electronic devices during the game, contravening Article 17.2.d of the code. The Congolese football association was consequently fined 5,000 Swiss francs.
FIFA noted that its rulings are determined on a case-by-case basis and remain subject to appeal. The governing body further stated that the publicly released sanctions summary is intended primarily for media purposes, with formal legal decisions communicated directly to the federations concerned.
