Sudan FA Lodges FIFA Complaint Against Senegal Over Assane Diao’s Eligibility

The Sudan Football Association has officially lodged a complaint with FIFA against Senegal for fielding Assane Diao in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Saturday, March 22, 2025.

The dispute revolves around FIFA’s eligibility rules regarding nationality switches, specifically the three-year waiting period required for players who have previously represented another country in official competitions.

Diao, who was introduced as a substitute in the 79th minute, replacing Ismaila Sarr, played a role in the match that ended in a 0-0 draw. However, the Sudan FA contends that the player should have been ineligible, citing his previous appearances for Spain’s U-21 team.

The 18-year-old winger featured in four matches for Spain’s U-21 side, including a friendly on October 13, 2023, and three UEFA U-21 European Championship qualifiers on October 17, November 17, and November 21, 2023.

According to FIFA regulations, a player who has represented a country in official youth competitions must meet specific conditions to switch allegiance, including the completion of a three-year waiting period. Sudan argues that Diao does not yet fulfill these criteria and should not have been eligible to represent Senegal.

The complaint is now in FIFA’s hands, with the global football governing body expected to review the case and make a decision in

due course.