Who is Lionel Mpasi? DR Congo goalkeeper makes record-tying saves vs Colombia
The DR Congo goalkeeper was terrific in the game.
Lionel Mpasi demonstrated a goalkeeping masterclass in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group K match against Colombia in Guadalajara, Mexico. DR Congo’s goalkeeper produced impressive stops, including stopping Daniel Muñoz’s header and blocking Luis Díaz’s close-range shot.
Mpasi was an important anchor for the Leopards as they faced tremendous Colombian pressure.
Lionel Mpasi was the star player in the encounter against Colombia, making an astounding five saves in the first 20 minutes. His amazing goalkeeping held Colombia off the scoreboard in the FIFA World Cup Group K match for a long period of time.
Mpasi made at least five saves in the opening 20 minutes, becoming the first custodian to do so in a FIFA World Cup match since Warren Barrett of Jamaica in 1998.
Colombia scored on a rebound off a Mpasi save, but the goal was ruled out due to Daniel Muñoz’s offside on the first header.
Also read: Who is Ante Budimir? Croatia’s oldest FIFA World Cup goalscorer
Lionel Mpasi profile
Club: Le Havre AC
Age: 31
Position: Goalkeeper
Lionel Mpasi-Nzau, a 31-year-old professional custodian, currently plays for Ligue 1 side Le Havre AC and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) national team. He was born in Meaux, France. He is well-known for his consistent shot-stopping abilities and role as a crucial international player.
Developed in the PSG youth system among other well-known players. He spent a significant chunk of his early professional career with Rodez, making over 100 games and helping the team gain promotion.
He signed a two-year contract with French top-flight club Le Havre. Mpasi made his Ligue 1 debut against Stade Rennais.
He represented France at the youth international level. He switched nationalities to serve his parents’ home nation, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He won his first senior cap in 2022.
Mpasi was an important element of the Leopards’ side that advanced to the semifinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Which club does Lionel Mpasi play for?
He plays for Le Havre.
Which position does he play in?
He is a goalkeeper.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.