World Cup star who faced England was deemed ineligible before tournament

FIFA allowed DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi to play at the World Cup despite knowing he was ineligible, having failed to complete his international allegiance change from France.

The New York Times reports that FIFA permitted DR Congo to field ineligible goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi throughout their World Cup campaign, including their round-of-32 loss to England, despite being aware he had not completed the required documentation to change his international allegiance from France. Nigeria lodged a complaint after Congo beat them in a qualifying play-off, but FIFA chose not to intervene, instead considering options including awarding Nigeria the win, imposing a fine, or taking no action on the grounds the complaint came too late. Mpasi made five saves in Congo's match against England before Harry Kane scored twice to secure a 2-1 victory.