Lionel Mpasi #1

Profile

Mpasi is a curious paradox: a backup goalkeeper at a Ligue 1 club fighting for survival yet an undisputed starter – and often outstanding – for DR Congo. A late bloomer, Mpasi came through at Paris St-Germain, but he did not truly emerge until he played in France’s second division with Rodez. French-born, he had to wait until his mid-20s to establish himself as a starter. His defining moment came at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations when he converted a decisive penalty against Egypt, smiling as he walked up, a moment that elevated him to cult status among Congolese fans. "My parents are from DR Congo, and I still have family there. I've never had the chance to visit, but I'd love to," he told Leopardsfoot in 2021 before his first cap. Like a few dual nationals, he discovered his connection to the country through football and has since become one of its most beloved figures.

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