Nigeria considers FIFA compensation over DR Congo eligibility scandal
Nigeria is considering seeking compensation from FIFA after fresh revelations that the governing body’s officials had identified an eligibility problem involving DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi before the Leopards eliminated the Super Eagles from the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoffs.
Nigeria’s hopes of securing redress over their controversial 2026 World Cup exit have been revived after fresh revelations raised questions about FIFA’s handling of DR Congo’s player eligibility.
Reports by The New York Times and Le Monde indicated that FIFA’s legal officials had determined that DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi had not completed the required process to switch his international allegiance from France, where he had represented the country at youth level.
Mpasi subsequently featured in the decisive African playoff against Nigeria in November 2025, where DR Congo eliminated the Super Eagles 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time.
Nigeria wants FIFA to answer questions
The revelations have prompted Nigeria’s National Sports Commission to consider its options, including a potential compensation claim against FIFA.
A senior NSC official said Nigeria could seek compensation for the financial consequences of missing the tournament, including lost World Cup revenue, sponsorship opportunities, player exposure and wider economic benefits.
The official also said Nigeria wants FIFA to reconsider the case, arguing that the newly revealed information goes beyond the technical grounds on which the original complaint was rejected.
The NFF had challenged the eligibility of several DR Congo players after the playoff defeat. The latest revelations, however, have placed particular focus on Mpasi and FIFA’s reported knowledge of his situation.
Why the controversy matters
FIFA’s handling of previous eligibility cases could become central to Nigeria’s argument.
South Africa were recently sanctioned for fielding suspended midfielder Teboho Mokoena against Lesotho, while Bolivia previously forfeited World Cup qualifiers after using an ineligible player.
Nigeria’s renewed position is therefore not simply about reversing a result. The federation and sports authorities want an explanation for why an eligibility issue reportedly identified within FIFA did not result in sporting consequences.
DR Congo subsequently defeated Jamaica in the intercontinental playoff and qualified for the World Cup.
For Nigeria, the latest revelations have reopened a wound that appeared closed. The Super Eagles missed the tournament, but the circumstances surrounding their elimination could now become the subject of a renewed challenge.
Whether FIFA will reopen the case or consider any compensation remains uncertain, but Nigeria is making clear that the matter is no longer being treated as finished.
