A top NFF official has given SCORENigeria a detailed insight to how the Super Eagles were docked three points and three goals by FIFA for fielding suspended Shehu Abdullahi in a 2018 World Cup qualifier in Algeria.
On November 10, 2017, the Super Eagles were forced to a 1-1 draw by hosts Algeria in Constantine.
John Ogu gave Nigeria the lead after 62 minutes, before Yacine Brahimi drew the home team level from the penalty spot two minutes from full time.
“Algeria played the match under protest,” reported the official who was in Constantine for the game.
“They protested against the eligibility of Shehu Abdullahi because he ought to miss the game because he was already on two bookings.”
It was alleged that as it is the practice, FIFA communicated the player’s suspension to the NFF, but somehow they overlooked it.
FIFA ruled on the matter on December 12, 2017.
The Super Eagles were docked three points and three goals.
Therefore, they finished on 12 points instead of 14 points, four points clear of second-placed Zambia, to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
They were also fined CHF 6,000.
It is a similar case to that concerning South Africa with the only difference being that Lesotho did not protest within the stipulated time.
Why not same thing happened to south Africa by this time
Your teams sucks, Bro. What does South Africa have to do with you failing to qualify for the 2026 world cup?
Its crazy how all your media is pushing the narrative. Are you trying to influence Fifa’s decision?
It sounds funny what FIFA is trying or has done to NFF, deducting points and goals. If Nigeria didn’t make it to world cup, FIFA will be at lose too.