Fifa's investigation revealed that Lionel Mpasi, the Democratic Republic of Congo goalkeeper, was ineligible to play for the country throughout the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. Mpasi holds French and Congolese nationality and had represented France at youth level. According to Fifa's findings, Mpasi had not completed the required process to switch his allegiance to DRC.
The issue came to light after the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) submitted a formal objection following the Super Eagles' penalty shootout defeat to the Leopards in the African playoff final in November 2025. The NFF had contested the eligibility of multiple DR Congo players citing nationality concerns and passport irregularities. Mpasi was born in Meaux to parents of Congolese origin and became provisionally cap-tied to France following his appearance in a U17 Euro qualifier against Serbia in June 2011.
Despite the discovery, Fifa imposed no disciplinary measures against DR Congo, allowing the Leopards to advance to the intercontinental playoff against Jamaica. DR Congo won the match 1-0 in extra time, with Mpasi serving as goalkeeper, thereby securing their qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The investigation was conducted by Fifa's legal team, assisted by reports from Le Monde and The New York Times.
The ineligibility of Mpasi raises questions about the vetting process for player eligibility in international competitions. Fifa's rules require players to obtain clearance before switching allegiance to another country. The case highlights the complexities of nationality and eligibility in international football, particularly for players with multiple nationalities.
The Nigerian Football Federation's objection was part of a broader scrutiny of DR Congo's player eligibility. The NFF had expressed concerns about the nationality and documentation of several DR Congo players. While Mpasi's ineligibility was confirmed, Fifa's decision not to impose disciplinary measures on DR Congo has sparked debate about the consistency of Fifa's application of its rules.
The 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign has been marked by controversy and disputes over player eligibility. The case of Lionel Mpasi underscores the need for clarity and transparency in the vetting process for international players. As teams prepare for the tournament, Fifa's handling of this case will be closely watched by football authorities and fans alike.
Key points
- Fifa found DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi ineligible to play for the country during the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
- Mpasi's ineligibility was due to an incomplete process for switching his allegiance from France to DR Congo.
- Despite the finding, Fifa imposed no disciplinary measures against DR Congo, allowing them to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
