Recent revelations from FIFA files have brought to light that DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was not qualified to play in the 2026 World Cup African playoff final against Nigeria. According to reports, the paperwork granting Mpasi permission to switch allegiance from France to DR Congo had not been finalized before the game. This has raised questions about the fairness of the match and the subsequent dismissal of Nigeria's petition by the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS).
The Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) had dismissed Nigeria's petition against DR Congo for fielding ineligible players during their 2026 World Cup African playoff final. However, with the new information from FIFA files, Nigerian sports officials are now seeking answers on whether the CAS decision was an honest mistake or a deliberate action to favor DR Congo. The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is considering demanding compensation from FIFA for the losses incurred by Nigeria due to FIFA's actions in the case.
The FIFA files revealed that lawyers for the global governing body became aware in March that Mpasi was allegedly ineligible and advised on various sanctions, including disqualification of DR Congo from the intercontinental playoff against Jamaica and banning Mpasi. However, no action was taken, and Mpasi went on to play for DR Congo at the final playoff against Jamaica and the World Cup finals in North America. This has sparked concerns over the integrity of the competition and the fairness of the outcome.
Jamaica has taken FIFA up on the case, seeking compensation for the injustice in their loss to DR Congo. The North and Central America Football confederation, CONCACAF, believes that Jamaica was dealt a wrong hand by FIFA in the saga. CONCACAF takes player eligibility matters seriously and expects regulations to be applied consistently and fairly in all competitions.
A top NFF official has described the revelations as a vindication of Nigeria's position, which led to the appeal to CAS in the first place. The official stated that the NFF may seek compensation for the losses of revenue and opportunity to contest for the World Cup that Nigeria lost. The NFF's acting secretary-general, Dr. Emmanuel Ikpeme, is not available for official comments on the issue.
Nigeria was guaranteed a minimum of $12.5 million if it had played at the World Cup and would have earned $18.5 million if the Super Eagles had made the second round. The NFF first raised eligibility concerns after DR Congo eliminated the Super Eagles from the African World Cup playoffs in November. The teams drew 1-1 after extra time before DR Congo won 4-3 on penalties.
The NFF is now considering its options if FIFA fails to respond to the revelations. The official stated that the federation expects FIFA to write to them on the issue, but if not, they will consider their next steps. The case has raised questions about the fairness and integrity of the 2026 World Cup qualification process.
Key points
- DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was ineligible to play against Nigeria due to incomplete paperwork for his allegiance switch.
- Nigeria may seek compensation from FIFA for losses incurred due to the federation's actions in the case.
- Jamaica has also taken FIFA up on the case, seeking compensation for their loss to DR Congo.
