FIFA awards win to Niger after Congo fail to show up for World Cup qualifier

FIFA announced on Wednesday that Niger has been awarded a victory and three points in a 2026 World Cup soccer qualifier against Congo.The match was postponed due to Congo's refusal to travel to Kinshasa, the capital of the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo.

This decision was made after their stadium in Brazzaville was found to be inadequate for hosting the game.

Despite Congo's absence, Niger traveled and was granted a 3-0 win, placing them second in Group E with six points, three behind the leaders Morocco. Congo, on the other hand, remains at zero points from their three matches.

It is important to note that only the top team from each of the nine pools will secure a spot in the expanded World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

FIFA's Disciplinary Committee declared the match as a forfeit with a 3-0 score in favor of Niger.

The Alphonse Massemba-Debat Stadium in Brazzaville was deemed unfit for use until renovations, including the installation of a new pitch, were completed.

Despite Congolese Sports Minister Hughes Nguilondile's declaration of the stadium's readiness in late May, FIFA deemed it too late to change the venue.

As a result, the match was ordered to proceed in Kinshasa as originally planned, leading to Congo's withdrawal in protest.