Democratic Republic of Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi has disclosed that former Villarreal striker Cédric Bakambu circulated match footage of Nigeria’s Unity Cup encounter with Jamaica as the Leopards intensify preparations for the intercontinental playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Leopards are set to face either Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz or New Caledonia in a qualifying series to secure qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament. 

As part of their tactical build-up, Mpasi revealed that players have been studying video clips to gain insight into potential opponents.

The goalkeeper said the shared footage has provided useful reference points, particularly given DR Congo’s familiarity with Nigeria.

"In a small group of players on Snapchat, Cédric sent us highlights from Jamaica vs. Nigeria," Mpasi was quoted as saying by Africa Foot United. 

"Since Nigeria is a team we know well, it helps us have some points of reference."

DR Congo head into the playoffs with confidence after edging Nigeria in a tense African qualifying tie.

The Leopards progressed via a 4-3 penalty shootout victory in Morocco after a 1-1 draw in regulation time, eliminating the Super Eagles from the direct qualification pathway.

The outcome of that fixture, however, remains a subject of controversy. The Nigeria Football Federation lodged a formal complaint to FIFA, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during the November 2025 playoff.

FIFA subsequently dismissed the petition, clearing DR Congo of any wrongdoing and upholding the match result. 

Despite this, the NFF has expressed dissatisfaction with the ruling and has initiated an appeal process in a bid to overturn the decision.

Adeyemi Adewale