Eyes on FIFA, NFF over fresh controversy on Super Eagles’ 2026 World Cup failure
This week, reports claimed that FIFA had found Congo DR goalkeeper, Lionel Mpasi ineligible three months before the 2026 World Cup. It was discovered that Mpasi had not completed the process of switching his international allegiance from France where he had represented the youth teams. FIFA reportedly became aware of this in March but took no action against Congo DR. “‘Absurd’ is the first word…
This week, allegations surfaced that the Confederation of African Football (CAF), FIFA's regional body, had deemed Congo DR goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi ineligible to play for his nation three months prior to the 2026 World Cup. The issue stemmed from Mpasi not having completed the necessary steps to change his international allegiance from France, where he had represented the youth teams.
FIFA became aware of the situation in March, yet no action was taken against Congo DR. Sports analyst Ope Adebari expressed his disbelief, stating, "Absurd" was the first word that came to mind. "Did FIFA really not sanction an ineligible player and his team despite the evidence staring them in the face?" he pondered. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) went on to secure a victory over Jamaica in the intercontinental play-off and made it to the round of 32, where Mpasi featured in their defeat to England.
However, Nigeria had been eliminated from contention after losing to DR Congo in the African play-off final in November. In response, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) lodged a complaint with FIFA, alleging that Congo DR had fielded between six and nine ineligible players during the competition. Unfortunately, the NFF's petition was dismissed on a technicality.
There are conflicting reports suggesting that Nigeria may have addressed FIFA with the incorrect email address, while verified sources confirm that FIFA failed to sanction DR Congo despite the evidence it had. "I think both parties can be blamed," Adebari said, acknowledging the complexity of the issue. Despite this latest development, Adebari questioned whether the Super Eagles truly deserved to have participated in the World Cup.
"With all due respect to Nigeria, given the inconsistent performances under Eric Chella, there's no guarantee that the Super Eagles would have secured qualification for the World Cup," he opined. "Simply put, no. I don't think Nigeria deserved to be at the 2026 World Cup." FIFA has firmly denied the allegations, emphasizing that its president, Gianni Infantino, had no part in the decision-making process.
They also denied that the matter was connected to Veron Mosengo-Omba, the former FIFA secretary general and current president of the Congolese federation. There have been rumors that the NFF is contemplating legal action and may seek compensation from FIFA. However, Adebari remains skeptical, believing that the matter will be resolved without any significant repercussions.
The controversy surrounding the 2026 World Cup failure of the Super Eagles and the eligibility of Lionel Mpasi continues to draw attention from the global football community.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Post Nigeria's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
