Contrary to the premature reports circulating on social media and various sports channels, FIFA has not yet officially approved the change of national sporting allegiance for goalkeeper Melvin Zinga to represent the Republic of Congo. Although the procedures with the international governing body are progressing swiftly, a thorough check on FIFA’s portal and database confirms that the Angers SCO goalkeeper's name is still not listed as an eligible player for the Red Devils.
This lack of official confirmation is why the Franco-Congolese goalkeeper had to forfeit the first match of the qualifiers against Namibia on September 24, as the coaching staff did not receive the necessary approval in time. Nevertheless, the case is being actively monitored by the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFOOT), and the final decision from the player status committee could come in the hours or days ahead.
Supporters of the Red Devils will need to exercise patience. If the administrative approval is granted in time before the crucial clash against the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon on September 29, Melvin Zinga may make his highly anticipated debut. Until there is an official update from the global governing body, any announcement confirming his eligibility remains unsubstantiated for now.
Here are the recently validated players:
