FIFA's Inaction on DR Congo's Player Eligibility Sparks Nigeria's Compensation Bid

The New York Times reported that FIFA's legal officials determined DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was ineligible to compete against Nigeria in the African World Cup playoffs in Rabat, Morocco, due to an incomplete change of international association from France. This finding supported the Nigeria Football Federation's (NFF) appeal to FIFA for disqualification of DR Congo and reinstatement of Nigeria, which FIFA ignored.

FIFA's lawyers identified the issue in March, prior to DR Congo's playoff against Jamaica, but no action was taken. DR Congo subsequently qualified for the 2026 World Cup.

Following the report, officials from Nigeria's National Sports Commission (NSC) are contemplating seeking compensation from FIFA for economic losses incurred due to Nigeria's elimination. The NSC official stated they are exploring all options, referencing a precedent where FIFA compensated the Football Association of Ireland after a disputed World Cup elimination.

The NFF had raised concerns about the eligibility of several DR Congo players, alleging FIFA was misled regarding their nationality status.