FIFA documents regarding Lionel Mpasi's national team switch emerge

It has emerged that Democratic Republic of the Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi played in the 2026 FIFA World Cup before his national team switch procedures from France to Congo were completed, and that FIFA allowed it despite knowing the situation.

Emergence of the Documents

According to documents obtained by The New York Times and Le Monde, it was determined that Democratic Republic of the Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi played for the national team before his switch procedures from France to Congo were completed.

FIFA Legal Department's Review

It was understood that FIFA legal department officials discussed among themselves prior to the World Cup that the necessary procedures for the player to change national teams had not been completed.

Nigeria's Appeal and Investigation

It was reported that FIFA launched an investigation upon the appeal filed by Nigeria, which was eliminated from the tournament after playing against Congo.

Participation After 52 Years

The Democratic Republic of the Congo had seized the opportunity to appear in the World Cup for the first time in 52 years by securing a victory against Jamaica.

Past Youth Matches

During the investigation process, it was determined that Mpasi had previously played in France's youth age categories and subsequently chose the Democratic Republic of the Congo National Team.