Lille file FIFA complaint as DR Congo hold Mbemba for World Cup ceremony

Lille OSC have reportedly filed a complaint with FIFA after defender Chancel Mbemba was prevented from returning to the club following the international break.

The Congolese centre-back remains in the Democratic Republic of the Congo after being asked to stay in the capital, Kinshasa, for a presidential ceremony celebrating the country’s historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

DR Congo sealed their place at the global tournament after edging Jamaica 1-0 after extra time in the intercontinental play-offs, ending a wait of more than 50 years to return to the World Cup.

The achievement sparked nationwide celebrations, with the president declaring a public holiday the following day.

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However, the celebrations have created tensions with Mbemba’s club.

Lille are unhappy that the defender has been unable to travel back in time for their important derby clash against RC Lens scheduled for Saturday, April 4, 2026, in Ligue 1.

According to reports from L'Équipe, Lille have officially reported the situation to FIFA, arguing that the player is being kept in the country for extended celebrations despite the international window having ended.

The absence of Mbemba could be a significant blow for Lille ahead of the heated northern derby, one of the biggest fixtures on their domestic calendar.



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