Nigeria is weighing a request for compensation from FIFA after new reports suggested DR Congo could have used an ineligible goalkeeper during the qualifying tie that ended the Super Eagles’ World Cup hopes.
Nigeria examines legal and sporting options
A senior official from the National Sports Commission said no final course of action has been approved, but that the country is reviewing every available avenue. Nigeria also intends to seek a reopening of the case.
- The potential action follows reporting based on internal FIFA material concerning DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.
- FIFA’s legal team reportedly determined in March 2026 that Mpasi’s international switch from France to DR Congo had not been correctly completed.
- Mpasi had previously represented France in youth international football.
FIFA’s reported review of Mpasi eligibility
FIFA lawyers reportedly considered disciplinary measures against DR Congo, yet no punishment was ultimately issued. FIFA has maintained that Nigeria’s original protest was rejected for procedural reasons and that the decision became binding when no official appeal was submitted.
Nigeria’s initial submission had raised concerns involving a number of Congolese players. The question surrounding Mpasi emerged only once FIFA began its own examination of the matter.
Qualifying defeat and compensation claim
DR Congo eliminated Nigeria by winning 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in November 2025. They subsequently defeated Jamaica in the intercontinental playoff before taking part in the World Cup.
The NSC official said Nigeria would give serious consideration to a compensation claim over financial damage caused by the elimination.
- Possible losses cited include tournament income.
- Nigeria also points to missed commercial and sponsorship possibilities.
- The country believes its players lost a major platform for international visibility.
“Nigeria has been vindicated,” the official said, adding that DR Congo should face consequences for its actions.
Uncertainty over any remedy
Nigeria’s position represents a set of demands rather than a FIFA decision or a settlement agreed by the parties. The reports do not indicate that Nigeria would necessarily have replaced DR Congo at the World Cup had Mpasi been ruled ineligible.
FIFA’s lawyers also considered the potential implications of Mpasi’s appearances for Burkina Faso’s own World Cup qualifying campaign.
