Fresh reports concerning the eligibility of Congo DR goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi have reignited debate over Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with questions being raised about the actions of FIFA and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Reports this week alleged that FIFA discovered about three months before the tournament that Mpasi had not completed the process of switching his international allegiance from France, where he had represented the country at youth level. FIFA reportedly became aware of the issue in March but did not take action against Congo DR.
Reacting to the development, Ope Adebari, a sports analyst, reporter and producer with News Central, expressed disbelief over the reported handling of the case.
“‘Absurd’ is the first word that came to mind,” Adebari told DAILY POST.
“Did FIFA really not sanction an ineligible player and his team despite the evidence staring them in the face?
“It’s very difficult to process and come to terms with. Further clarity is needed regarding this debacle.”
Congo DR, popularly known as the Leopards, subsequently defeated Jamaica in the intercontinental play-off to secure a place at the World Cup. The team progressed to the round of 32, where Mpasi featured in their defeat to England.
Nigeria, meanwhile, failed to reach the intercontinental play-off after losing to Congo DR in the African play-off final in November.
Following that defeat, the NFF petitioned FIFA, alleging that Congo DR had fielded between six and nine ineligible players. However, the complaint was dismissed on a technicality.
Adebari said reports about the handling of Nigeria’s appeal had raised further questions, although he believes responsibility may lie with both parties.
“Certain reports say Nigeria sent the appeal to the wrong email, 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.
Despite the latest allegations, the sports analyst questioned whether Nigeria would have qualified for the tournament even if the complaint had produced a different outcome.
“With all due respect to Nigeria, given the inconsistent performances under Eric Chelle, there’s no guarantee that the Super Eagles would have secured qualification for the World Cup.
“Simply put, no. I don’t think Nigeria deserved to be at the 2026 World Cup,” Adebari said.
FIFA has rejected the allegations surrounding Mpasi’s eligibility, saying it “strongly rejects these unfounded allegations”. The world football governing body also stated that its president, Gianni Infantino, had no involvement in any decisions relating to the matter.
The organisation further denied claims that the issue was connected to support for Veron Mosengo-Omba, the former FIFA secretary general who now serves as president of the Congolese federation.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that the NFF is considering possible legal action and could seek compensation over Nigeria’s World Cup qualification dispute.
Adebari, however, does not expect the matter to lead to significant consequences.
He said: “I sincerely believe we will get back to business as usual, and nothing will happen.”
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