FIFA has imposed fines on Nigeria and the Democratic
Republic of Congo following incidents involving supporters during their African
qualifying playoff final.
According to a disciplinary report released by the
global football governing body, both countries were found to have violated
sections of the FIFA Disciplinary Code due to the behaviour of their fans
during the match, which DR Congo eventually won on penalties.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was fined 1,000
Swiss francs after Nigerian supporters were reported to have thrown objects
onto the pitch during the game. FIFA stated that the act breached Articles
17 and 17.2.b of its disciplinary code.
The Congolese Football Association received a heavier
penalty, with FIFA imposing a 5,000 Swiss francs fine after its
supporters were caught using laser pointers during the match. The governing
body ruled that the action violated Article 17.2.d of the code.
FIFA explained that the sanctions were determined
based on the specific circumstances of each case and noted that both decisions
remain subject to appeal.
However, the disciplinary report did not address a
separate protest earlier filed by the Nigeria Football Federation concerning
the alleged use of ineligible players by DR Congo during the playoff.
The NFF had accused the Congolese Football Association
of misleading football authorities during the clearance process for some
players, raising concerns about their citizenship status. Nigeria claimed that
several players who appeared in the playoff were fraudulently registered.
FIFA has yet to announce a ruling on the complaint.
Meanwhile, DR Congo has already announced its squad
for the upcoming intercontinental playoff later this month. The team is
set to face the winner of the match between Jamaica and New Caledonia,
with the victor earning one of the final qualification spots for the 2026
FIFA World Cup.
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