An investigation by The New York Times has revealed that FIFA knew the Democratic Republic of Congo had fielded an ineligible player but allowed the team to continue its World Cup qualification campaign. FIFA's own legal officials had privately determined that Congo breached player eligibility rules after goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi failed to complete the required documentation to switch his international affiliation from France, where he had represented youth teams. Despite the finding, FIFA allowed Mpasi to continue playing, and Congo went on to defeat Jamaica in March to secure its first World Cup appearance in 52 years. The development has raised fresh questions over FIFA's handling of Nigeria's complaint against Congo, which came after the Central African side defeated the Super Eagles on penalties in the African play-off final in November.
Related Articles
Don't miss out on breaking stories and in-depth articles.