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FIFA Starts 100-Day Countdown to 2026 World Cup Amid Nigeria vs DR Congo Dispute

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FIFA launches 100-day countdown to the 2026 World Cup, but Nigeria’s appeal against DR Congo over player eligibility remains unresolved

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FIFA on Tuesday launched the final 100-day countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place from June 11 to July 19.

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In a post on its official X handle, FIFA wrote: “The biggest-ever @FIFAWorldCup is just 100 days away! 48 teams. 104 games. 11 June to 19 July,” adding that the opening match between Mexico and South Africa will kick off the tournament.

However, FIFA did not provide any update on the pending disciplinary case involving Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).

The dispute arose after Super Eagles lost to DR Congo in the African playoff final in November 2025 on penalties.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) subsequently filed a complaint, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players.

Nigeria claims that former England youth internationals Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe played in violation of Congolese law and FIFA eligibility rules.

With DR Congo preparing for intercontinental playoffs later this month—potentially against Jamaica or New Caledonia—FIFA has yet to issue a ruling. The delay has frustrated fans and football stakeholders in Nigeria.

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If upheld, Nigeria’s appeal could disqualify DR Congo and reinstate the Super Eagles in the World Cup qualification process.

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Arteta Praises Moyes, Warns Arsenal of Everton Threat

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Arteta praises Moyes ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Everton, warning that David Moyes’ organised side poses a serious threat

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised Everton boss David Moyes as a respected figure in English football while warning that his team must prepare for a difficult Premier League encounter at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

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Speaking ahead of the match on October 24, 2026, Arteta highlighted Moyes’ longevity, contribution to English football and qualities as both a coach and a person.

Asked whether Moyes could be considered the king of the Premier League, Arteta expressed admiration for his Everton counterpart.

“100%; I don’t know if it’s the king or what it is, but he’s certainly someone that I think we all look up to,” he said.

Arteta praised Moyes not only for his long career but also for what he represents within the game.

“Not only for his longevity, but I think what he represents for the game, what he represents for the Premier League, and his trajectory,” he said.

The Arsenal manager added that his personal relationship with Moyes had strengthened his respect for him.

“For me especially, because I know the man behind the coach, which is the most important thing, and then I really know as well the coach, and he’s a superb coach,” Arteta said.

Arteta spent six years at Everton as a player, giving him first-hand knowledge of the club and its expectations.

Despite Arsenal’s home advantage, Arteta cautioned against underestimating Everton, pointing to their tactical organisation and individual talent under Moyes.

“There are a lot, because I know David so well and how he sets the team, the quality they have in their organisation and individually,” he said.

Arteta also noted that Everton had avoided defeat before their most recent match, describing them as a well-balanced side capable of making life difficult for Arsenal.

“It’s no coincidence they didn’t lose before their last game.

They have a really good team, which we know because in recent clashes, it’s always been a really difficult game for us,” he added.

The warning underlines Arsenal’s need for concentration against an Everton side Arteta expects to provide a stern test.

Arteta also discussed the tactical approaches Arsenal could face, acknowledging that opposing teams would decide how best to challenge his side.

He said managers prepare their teams according to what they believe gives them the best chance of winning, meaning Arsenal must be ready for different styles of play.

“Every team is going to prepare in the best way with how they think they can beat us, like we do with the opponent,” Arteta said.

He explained that an early opportunity or goal could dramatically alter the course of a match, influencing how both teams approach the remaining minutes.

“You could have an open chance in the first 10 minutes that changes the game and then the next 80 minutes are different because of the context of the game, results have a huge impact on how teams behave,” he said.

Arteta stressed that Arsenal must be capable of finding solutions regardless of how the contest develops.

“We need to be able to win and enjoy as much as possible in every context,” he added.

The Spaniard also responded to discussions about Arsenal’s style of play, saying the team must focus on its own performance while respecting the opposition.

Arteta acknowledged that football naturally generates strong reactions and that assessments of a team can change depending on what happens during a match.

“I think you have to respect every opponent – it would be good to be a bit consistent, but it’s understandable,” he said.

He added that Arsenal’s responsibility was to deliver performances that keep supporters engaged, even when opponents adopt defensive or cautious tactics.

“But that’s normal, that’s the expectation, and our job is to create constant excitement. The opponent has a lot to do with how they want to play, it’s inevitable, but it’s on us,” Arteta said.

Arsenal’s meeting with Everton comes as the Gunners continue to balance their domestic campaign with European commitments.

Also read: Arokodare Eyes Permanent Ajax Move After Strong Start

Arteta’s comments make clear that he expects his players to adapt to the tactical demands of the contest and deliver a performance capable of securing a positive result.

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Arokodare Eyes Permanent Ajax Move After Strong Start

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Tolu Arokodare has expressed interest in a permanent Ajax move after an impressive loan spell, scoring and assisting in the win over Atalanta (more…)

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Courtois Warns Barcelona Ahead of El Clásico Showdown

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Thibaut Courtois says El Clásico is always 50-50 as Real Madrid prepare to face Barcelona in Sunday’s La Liga clash at Camp Nou

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