FIFA finds DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi ineligible during World Cup qualifying campaign

Investigations by Le Monde and The New York Times reveal that FIFA’s legal team has determined Democratic Republic of Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was ineligible to represent his country throughout the 2026 World Cup qualification cycle.

Born in Meaux, France, to Congolese parents, Mpasi previously represented France at the youth level, becoming provisionally cap-tied after appearing in an Under-17 European Championship qualifier against Serbia in June 2011. According to findings, the player failed to complete the formal association switch required by governing regulations to legally represent the Leopards.

The eligibility crisis stems from a formal petition lodged by the Nigeria Football Federation following the Super Eagles' dramatic penalty shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African playoff final in November 2025. The NFF had initially contested the squad's composition, citing persistent nationality discrepancies and passport irregularities.

Despite confirming the eligibility breach, FIFA opted against imposing sporting sanctions or overturning the fixture results. The decision allowed the Leopards to advance to the intercontinental playoff against Jamaica, where Mpasi started in goal during a 1-0 extra-time victory that ultimately secured the nation's ticket to the 2026 World Cup.