FIFA, DR Congo and Lionel Mpasi
6 October 2026
FIFA is facing renewed scrutiny after reports said its legal team found DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi had not completed his change of association from France before representing Congo during their World Cup qualifying campaign.
Nigeria had protested Mpasi’s eligibility after losing to DR Congo, but FIFA rejected the complaint on procedural and timing grounds. Reports said sanctions, including possible exclusion, were considered before Congo ultimately qualified for the World Cup.