FIFA Rules DR Congo's Mpasi Ineligible for World Cup Play

FIFA has determined that Lionel Mpasi, the goalkeeper for the Democratic Republic of Congo, was ineligible to participate in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. Investigations revealed that Mpasi, who holds both French and Congolese nationality, had not finalized the necessary process to switch his allegiance to DR Congo after previously representing France at the youth level.

He became provisionally cap-tied to France following his appearance in an U17 Euro qualifier against Serbia in June 2011. This information surfaced after the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) lodged a formal objection following the Super Eagles' penalty shootout loss to DR Congo in the African playoff final in November 2025.

The NFF raised concerns regarding the eligibility of several DR Congo players based on nationality and passport issues. Despite the findings, FIFA did not impose any disciplinary actions against DR Congo, allowing them to proceed to the intercontinental playoff, where they defeated Jamaica 1-0 after extra time, securing their spot in the 2026 World Cup.