Eyes on FIFA, NFF over fresh controversy on Super Eagles’ 2026 World Cup failure

This week, reports claimed that FIFA had found Congo DR goalkeeper, Lionel Mpasi ineligible three months before the 2026 World Cup.

It was discovered that Mpasi had not completed the process of switching his international allegiance from France where he had represented the youth teams.

FIFA reportedly became aware of this in March but took no action against Congo DR.

“‘Absurd’ is the first word that came to mind,” Ope Adebari, a sports analyst, reporter and producer with News Central, 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.”

The Leopards went on to defeat Jamaica in the intercontinental play-off and featured in the World Cup, reaching the round of 32, where Mpasi played in their defeat to England.

Nigeria had missed out on the intercontinental play-off after losing to Congo DR in the African play-off final in November.

Afterwards, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) lodged a complaint with the world football governing body, alleging that Congo DR had fielded between six and nine ineligible players.

The petition was dismissed on a technicality.

“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.

However, even with this fresh twist to the saga, did the Super Eagles truly deserve to be at the World Cup?

“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 already said it “strongly rejects these unfounded allegations” concerning Mpasi’s eligibility, adding that its president, Gianni Infantino, had no role in any decisions.

It has also denied that the matter had anything to do with supporting Veron Mosengo-Omba, the former FIFA secretary general who is now president of the Congolese federation.

There have been whispers that the NFF is exploring legal options and may seek compensation.

However, Adebari does not expect much to come of the matter.

He said: “I sincerely believe we will get back to business as usual, and nothing will happen.”