“If You Can’t Win on the Pitch, Don’t Try from the Back Door,” DR Congo Fires Back at NFF Petition

The Democratic Republic of Congo has issued a strong response to a petition filed by the Nigeria Football Federation following their recent World Cup playoff encounter.

DR Congo secured qualification after defeating Nigeria’s Super Eagles 4–3 on penalties in the final of the 2025 FIFA World Cup African playoffs. On Tuesday, the NFF announced that it had submitted a formal petition to FIFA, alleging that the Congolese team fielded ineligible players during the match.

Reacting swiftly, the Leopards dismissed the claims and stood firmly by the legitimacy of their victory. In a statement posted on their official X account, DR Congo criticised the move by the Nigerian federation, suggesting the issue should have been settled on the pitch.

“If you can’t win on the pitch, don’t try to win from the back door,” the statement read. “The World Cup has to be played with dignity and confidence. Not with lawyers’ tricks. Bring it on!”

The exchange has heightened tension between both football bodies as FIFA prepares to review the petition and determine the next course of action.