Meet Lionnel Mpasi: DR Congo’s Goalkeeper Who Nearly Shocked England at the 2026 World Cup

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Lionnel Mpasi was the hero DR Congo fans didn’t know they needed at the 2026 World Cup. Born near Paris in 1994 to Congolese parents, the 31-year-old Le Havre keeper switched from France’s youth ranks and made his senior debut for the Leopards in 2022. He first grabbed attention at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, then announced himself globally with eight saves in a narrow 1-0 loss to Colombia. In Atlanta’s Round of 32 against England, Mpasi produced a string of brilliant stops—five in the first half alone—earning respect from even Harry Kane. Although England edged a 2-1 win, Mpasi’s display captivated football fans and highlighted DR Congo’s growing ambition on the world stage. After the match, he spoke with quiet pride, promising to rest and return stronger as the Leopards build for the future.

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