The Democratic Republic of Congo, DRC, has fired back at Nigeria, claiming that they are attempting to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup through the back door.

The Leopards beat Nigeria 4-3 on penalties in the final of the African playoffs in Rabat last month.

The Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, has filed a petition seeking to disqualify them from the World Cup for fielding several ineligible players.

The DRC have now responded to the petition with very strong words.

“If you can’t win on the pitch, don’t try to win from the back door,” they wrote on their official X handle.

“The World Cup has to be played with dignity and confidence. Not with lawyers’ tricks. Bring it on!”