Fresh FIFA Bombshell: Nigeria Could Have Reached World Cup Play-Off After DR Congo Keeper Controversy

FIFA officials reportedly knew that Democratic Republic of Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi had not completed the required paperwork to represent the country when he featured against Nigeria in the 2026 World Cup qualifying play-off, but Nigeria’s appeal was ultimately rejected on technical grounds.

According to reports reviewed by Bush Radio Academy, FIFA had determined that Mpasi had failed to complete the necessary process to change his international affiliation from France to the Democratic Republic of Congo after previously representing French youth teams.

Mpasi played the entire 120 minutes when DR Congo faced Nigeria in the continental play-off final in November 2025. The match ended 1-1 after extra time before DR Congo prevailed 4-3 on penalties, securing a place in the intercontinental play-off and ending Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the World Cup.

Following the match, Nigerian football authorities lodged a complaint over Mpasi’s eligibility and sought a review of the result.

FIFA officials reportedly considered several possible outcomes, including awarding the match to Nigeria, imposing sanctions on DR Congo, replacing DR Congo with Nigeria in the intercontinental play-off against Jamaica, or dismissing the complaint because it was submitted late.

According to the report, the committee handling the case initially proposed awarding the match to Nigeria. Such a decision would have sent the Super Eagles into the intercontinental play-off against Jamaica.

However, FIFA ultimately rejected Nigeria’s case on a technicality, despite reportedly being aware of the goalkeeper’s incomplete eligibility documentation.

The world football governing body did not directly dispute the findings concerning Mpasi’s paperwork. Instead, FIFA stated that its committees operate independently and make decisions based on applicable regulations and the specific facts presented in each case.

FIFA also maintained that its president, Gianni Infantino, had no involvement in the decision.

Former Nigeria Football Federation president Ibrahim Gusau criticised the handling of the matter, claiming that Nigerian officials were only informed that their complaint had been dismissed without being given details concerning Mpasi’s eligibility.

Gusau called for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the case, arguing that the issue warranted further scrutiny.

The revelations have renewed questions about the handling of Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying appeal and whether the Super Eagles could have been given another opportunity to secure a place in the intercontinental play-off had the eligibility complaint been upheld.