Ighalo questions DRC’s incomplete CAS appeal against FIFA by NFF

Former Super Eagles forward Odion Ighalo has weighed in on the ongoing dispute between Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo, expressing doubts over the possible outcome of taking the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Reacting to the situation, Ighalo suggested that pursuing the case may not produce a positive outcome unless Nigeria makes an exceptionally strong case.

“They said they presented players who are destined to play, it is very difficult because they must have a very strong case to qualify for the World Cup because FIFA is not the CAF that will give the ticket to Nigeria.

“They must have a very strong case, I hope it favors Nigeria because these guys deserve to be in the World Cup; because Osimhen is doing so well that he deserves to be in the World Cup. He is a player, the same as Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze.”

Nigeria submitted a petition to FIFA regarding the Democratic Republic of the Congo, alleging that certain players on the team were ineligible due to issues related to their citizenship status, which allegedly contravenes the country’s laws.

However, FIFA has already reviewed the complaint and rejected Nigeria’s claims.

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In response, Nigeria has indicated its intention to refer the matter to the FIFA Appeals Committee and, if necessary, proceed to CAS.

Despite these efforts, the situation looks increasingly uncertain for Nigeria, especially as the Democratic Republic of the Congo faces Jamaica in March.

Ighalo’s comments reflect a broader concern among fans and stakeholders, emphasizing both the difficulty of overturning FIFA decisions and the need for an airtight case if Nigeria hopes to achieve a different result.