Reports: FIFA Knew Before World Cup that Congo Goalie Was Ineligible in Key Qualifying Games
Internal FIFA documents say Lionel Mpasi was not properly cleared for DR Congo, yet the team kept its World Cup place after Nigeria’s protest was rejected.
- FIFA permitted the Democratic Republic of Congo to compete in the 2026 World Cup despite internal findings that goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi lacked administrative clearance during qualifying, according to an investigation by the New York Times.
- The Nigeria Football Federation lodged a formal appeal after losing their continental play-off against DR Congo, arguing the Congolese federation failed to complete mandatory FIFA paperwork for Mpasi's international switch. Standard FIFA practice stipulates automatic forfeit for fielding ineligible players.
- FIFA dismissed the Nigerian claim on a technicality, opting against sanctions or overturning match results. The decision enabled DR Congo, featuring Newcastle United striker Yoane Wissa, to advance to the tournament.
- During the tournament in North America, The Leopards successfully navigated Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan before being eliminated by England in the Round of 32.
- Previous precedents, such as Bolivia losing points during 2018 World Cup qualification for fielding an ineligible player, have added scrutiny to FIFA's handling. FIFA President Gianni Infantino's organization stated, "FIFA's committees are autonomous and decide cases on the basis of the regulations in force.
157 Articles
157 Articles
A story that gave rise to controversy about the eligibility of the Democratic Republic of the Congo guard and his participation in the qualifying journey to Mondial 2026, before the International Federation decided its position on the crisis.
FIFA has denied media reports that Congolese goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was not allowed to play before and during the World Cup in the summer.
FIFA threatens the next scandal. There are doubts about the eligibility of Congolese goalkeeper Mpasi before the World Cup. The World Federation contradicts reports.
saarbruecker-zeitung.de
volksfreund.deFIFA threatens the next scandal. There are doubts about the eligibility of Congolese goalkeeper Mpasi before the World Cup. The World Federation contradicts reports.
Three months after the World Cup, World and New York Times surveys reveal that Congolese goaltender Lionel Mpasi was ineligible, and FIFA knowingly ignored the irregularity. A regulatory imbroglio that could revive the debate on the integrity of global football.
FIFA gave DR Congo the green light to play in the World Cup, even though qualification was secured with an illegal player.
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