FIFA faces scrutiny over DR Congo goalkeeper eligibility claims

FIFA is facing renewed scrutiny following reports that DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi may have been ineligible to represent the country during their decisive 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

According to reports by The New York Times and Le Monde, an internal FIFA document indicated that Mpasi had not completed the required process to change his international allegiance after representing France at youth level.

Mpasi, who was born in France, reportedly played for French youth teams before switching his international allegiance to DR Congo.

The reports claim FIFA’s legal department was aware of concerns surrounding the goalkeeper’s documentation but did not intervene when he represented DR Congo in their World Cup qualifying campaign.

The issue reportedly came to light after Nigeria lodged a complaint following their defeat to DR Congo. That result helped the Congolese side advance to the World Cup qualifying playoff, where they subsequently defeated Jamaica to secure qualification for the tournament.

According to the reports, FIFA later determined that Mpasi’s documentation was not in order but dismissed the case because of a procedural defect in Nigeria’s complaint.

FIFA has denied any improper intervention in the matter, saying its committees are autonomous and make decisions based on the applicable regulations and the specific facts presented to them.

The reports have nevertheless raised questions about FIFA’s handling of the case, particularly given the potential sporting consequences normally associated with fielding an ineligible player.

Former Nigerian federation president Ibrahim Musa has called for an investigation into the matter, arguing that FIFA should provide greater clarity over its handling of the complaint.

The allegations come after DR Congo secured their first World Cup qualification in 52 years, adding further attention to the controversy surrounding Mpasi’s eligibility.

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