Equatorial Guinea’s bid for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has suffered a significant setback as FIFA has annulled the six points they secured from their 3-0 victories over Namibia and Liberia in the initial World Cup qualifiers. This decision stems from the participation of AFCON top scorer Emilio Nsue, who was deemed ineligible for these matches.
Following an exhaustive investigation, FIFA’s disciplinary committee determined that Nsue was ineligible to compete in “several” international matches. Consequently, Nsue has been handed a six-month ban from participating in games.
Nsue’s goals in the qualifiers now mean Equatorial Guinea enters their third qualifier with zero points. Additionally, the national federation faces a $164,000 fine imposed by the world football governing body.
However, Nsue and Equatorial Guinea have the right to appeal this decision. Should their defense succeed, the sanctions could be overturned; otherwise, the penalties will stand.
