Nigeria, March 6 -- Fresh developments have emerged in the race for the final slots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The global football governing body officially opened ticket sales for the intercontinental play-off tournament on Thursday, confirming the participating nations and match venues.

The announcement, which includes the Democratic Republic of Congo among the contenders, comes amid lingering controversy surrounding Nigeria's protest over the eligibility of some Congolese players during the African qualifying play-offs last year.

According to FIFA, the mini-tournament will be staged in Mexico later this month, with matches scheduled for 26 March and 31 March in two host cities: Estadio Akron in Guadalajara and Estadio BBVA in Monte...