Who is Lionel Mpasi? DR Congo goalkeeper at centre of Harry Kane VAR controversy

FootballSports
2 Jul 2026 • 1:30 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Who is Lionel Mpasi? DR Congo goalkeeper at centre of Harry Kane VAR controversy

  • England had desperate claims for a penalty waved away after Harry Kane appeared to be brought down in the box by DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.
  • Referee Adham Makhadmeh dismissed Kane's appeal, seemingly indicating the England striker had dived – with VAR agreeing with the decision.
  • Mpasi developed in the academies of Paris Saint-Germain and Toulouse, establishing himself at Rodez after representing France at youth level.
  • He has become an integral part of the DR Congo national team, helping them reach the knockout rounds of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and securing his place as number one for the 2026 World Cup.
  • Mpasi also made important saves in the first half from Kane, Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford.

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