FIFA has imposed fines on the Nigeria Football Federation and the DR Congo Football Federation after crowd disturbances marred the 2026 FIFA World Cup African play-off final.

In its disciplinary update, FIFA confirmed that both associations were found to have breached its regulations following incidents involving supporters during the match, which DR Congo secured via a penalty shootout.

Investigations revealed that Nigerian fans threw objects onto the pitch, contravening Articles 17 and 17.2.b of FIFA’s disciplinary code. As a result, the Nigeria Football Federation was fined 1,000 Swiss francs.

The DR Congo Football Federation, however, received a steeper penalty. FIFA ruled that its supporters used laser pointers during the game—an infringement of Article 17.2.d—leading to a fine of 5,000 Swiss francs.

FIFA stressed that each sanction was determined based on the nature and severity of the offences, adding that both decisions may still be appealed.

Notably, the governing body’s report did not address a separate protest lodged by Nigeria over the alleged use of ineligible players by DR Congo. The Nigerian federation is said to have formally petitioned FIFA, questioning the eligibility of certain players whose nationality status had come under scrutiny.

The complaint alleges that some of these players participated in the decisive fixture, though FIFA has yet to rule on the matter.

Meanwhile, DR Congo has named their squad for the upcoming intercontinental play-offs scheduled for later this month. They are set to face the winner of the tie between Jamaica and New Caledonia, with a coveted spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the line.