FIFA has imposed disciplinary sanctions on Nigeria Football Federation and the DR Congo Football Association following incidents that occurred during a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between the two countries.

According to FIFA’s latest disciplinary report on World Cup qualification matches, both football federations were found guilty of separate violations during the fixture played on November 16, 2025.

Nigeria fined over crowd misconduct

Nigeria was sanctioned after spectators were found to have thrown objects onto the pitch during the match, a violation related to stadium order and security.

The offence falls under Article 17 and Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, prompting FIFA to impose a fine of 1,000 Swiss francs on the Nigerian football body.

DR Congo faces higher penalty

The Democratic Republic of the Congo received a heavier sanction after its supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the game, which can disrupt players and officials.

The action breached Article 17.2.d of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, leading FIFA to fine the Congolese federation 5,000 Swiss francs.

FIFA explains disciplinary process

FIFA said the sanctions were determined based on the circumstances surrounding each case and may still be subject to appeal by the affected federations.

The football governing body added that the publicly released disciplinary summary is intended mainly to inform the media, while full legal decisions are communicated directly to the national associations involved.

The incident is one of several disciplinary cases FIFA has reviewed as qualification matches for the 2026 World Cup continue across different regions.