Accra:DR Congo reportedly fielded an ineligible player during their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, leading to questions about their qualification for the tournament.
According to Ghana Web, an investigation by Le Monde revealed that FIFA's legal department found goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi did not complete the necessary process to change his international allegiance from France to DR Congo. Despite this, Mpasi, who was born in France and played for its youth teams, participated in DR Congo's qualification efforts. The Congolese football federation initiated the process for his association change in 2021, but it was never finalized.
Mpasi played in several qualifying games, including a pivotal playoff against Nigeria in November 2025, where DR Congo triumphed on penalties following a 1-1 draw. Nigeria subsequently filed a complaint with FIFA regarding the eligibility of DR Congo players, but it was dismissed on procedural grounds.
FIFA lawyers revisited the case in March 2026 and confirmed Mpasi's ineligibility. Le Monde's internal documents suggested that sanctions could include forfeiting matches Mpasi participated in, potentially allowing Nigeria to take DR Congo's place in the intercontinental playoff against Jamaica. However, no sanctions were imposed, and DR Congo went on to defeat Jamaica 1-0, securing their first World Cup appearance since 1974.
Mpasi played in the 2026 World Cup, including DR Congo's Round of 32 match against England, where they lost 2-1. FIFA defended its actions, stating that its disciplinary bodies operate independently and base decisions on regulations and facts.