FIFA is facing fresh questions over Nigeria’s failure to reach the 2026 World Cup after reports claimed its officials knew DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi had not completed the required switch from France.
According to the reports, Mpasi’s paperwork had not been finalised before DR Congo faced Nigeria.
The NFF had raised concerns after DR Congo eliminated the Super Eagles in November. The match ended 1-1 after extra time before DR Congo won 4-3 on penalties.
DR Congo later defeated Jamaica in the intercontinental playoff to secure a World Cup place.
On October 6, The New York Times and Le Monde reported that FIFA lawyers became aware in March that Mpasi was allegedly ineligible. They reportedly advised sanctions, including removing DR Congo from the playoff against Jamaica and banning Mpasi.
No action was taken, however, allowing Mpasi to play against Jamaica and later at the World Cup in North America.
Nigeria is now expected to take up the matter with FIFA.
Jamaica has also filed a complaint, seeking compensation over what it considers an unfair defeat.
CONCACAF said: “CONCACAF takes player eligibility matters very seriously and expects the applicable regulations and procedures to be applied consistently and fairly in all competitions.
“Any concerns regarding player eligibility, particularly those that may affect the integrity of a competition or the interests of one of our member associations, should be thoroughly reviewed and addressed through FIFA’s appropriate governance and disciplinary bodies, in accordance with established regulations and due process.”
