FIFA knew Congo fielded ineligible player against Nigeria in 2026 W’Cup qualifier — Report

FIFA was aware that the Democratic Republic of Congo fielded an ineligible player, goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, during a 2026 World Cup qualifier match against Nigeria, according to a report by The New York Times. Mpasi had not completed the necessary documentation to switch his international affiliation from France to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Despite this, FIFA allowed Mpasi to continue playing, and Congo went on to defeat Nigeria in the penalty shootout, securing its first World Cup appearance in 52 years. The development has raised questions about FIFA's handling of Nigeria's complaint against Congo, which was filed after Congo defeated Nigeria in the African play-off final.

Nigeria's Football Federation had accused Congo of fielding ineligible players, including Mpasi, and claimed the Congolese federation had misled FIFA. FIFA officials had considered several possible sanctions, including awarding the match to Nigeria, imposing fines, or replacing Congo with Nigeria in the play-off against Jamaica.

However, they ultimately decided not to take any action on the grounds that Nigeria had filed its complaint late.