FIFA Under Fire for Handling DR Congo Goalkeeper's Eligibility

FIFA is facing renewed scrutiny regarding player eligibility after reports indicated that its lawyers identified DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi as potentially ineligible to play. In March, FIFA lawyers prepared a list of possible sanctions, including a potential ban for Mpasi and the disqualification of DR Congo from their intercontinental World Cup play-off against Jamaica.

However, no disciplinary action was taken, allowing Mpasi to represent DR Congo at the World Cup in North America, where he started in the Leopards’ 2-1 defeat to England in the last 32. This situation has raised questions about FIFA president Gianni Infantino's management of World Cup disciplinary matters.

CONCACAF, representing Jamaica, emphasized the importance of consistent application of player eligibility regulations. The controversy follows FIFA's handling of United States striker Folarin Balogun's disciplinary case, where political influence was suggested after US President Donald Trump contacted Infantino regarding Balogun's suspension.