Recent investigations by American and French media have accused FIFA of covering up significant player eligibility issues related to the Democratic Republic of Congo's national football team. This controversy centers around goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, who has been implicated in a scandal that raises questions about FIFA's enforcement of its own regulations.

During the 2026 World Cup, the Democratic Republic of Congo made headlines by holding Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, to a draw in the group stage. However, it has now come to light that Mpasi, who played for youth teams in France before switching to represent the Democratic Republic of Congo, was not officially eligible to compete. Internal documents reviewed by the media indicate that FIFA was aware of this issue but allowed the team to continue its campaign.

The investigations published on October 7 by the New York Times and Le Monde reveal that the transfer process for Mpasi began in 2021 but was never completed, leaving him ineligible to represent the national team. The allegations are serious, suggesting that FIFA's oversight may have affected the integrity of the matches, particularly during the African regional playoffs.

On November 16, 2025, Mpasi played the entire match in a crucial playoff against Nigeria, which ended in a 1-1 draw and was decided by penalties, with the Democratic Republic of Congo winning 4-3. Following the match, Nigeria contested the eligibility of several Congolese players, claiming that FIFA had been misled into allowing them to play. The Nigerian Football Federation's initial complaint encompassed broader issues of nationality and licensing for multiple players, not just Mpasi.

Despite the gravity of the situation, FIFA rejected Nigeria's appeal on procedural grounds, citing that the necessary objections were not filed within the required timeframe. This has led to further scrutiny of FIFA's processes and the apparent lack of action taken against the Democratic Republic of Congo, even after internal findings suggested potential violations.

The controversy has also raised questions about the relationship between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Véron Mosengo-Omba, who was elected president of the Congolese football federation shortly after the team's qualification. While there is no evidence that Infantino directly ordered a cover-up, the situation has prompted calls for accountability and transparency within FIFA.

As the fallout from this scandal continues, Nigerian officials are reportedly considering seeking compensation from FIFA for the alleged injustices faced during the qualification process. FIFA has yet to issue an official statement regarding these allegations.