2026 World Cup: the DRC unveils an ambitious list for its grand return
More than fifty years after its last participation, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is making its return to the world stage. The Leopards will compete in the 2026 World Cup, scheduled from June 11 to July 19. For this event, coach Sébastien Desabre has called up a group of 26 players. A squad composed of European veterans and emerging talents.
More than fifty years after its last appearance on the world stage, the Congolese national football team is preparing to return to the World Cup with great ambitions. Coach Sébastien Desabre has officially announced a balanced squad, mixing experienced players in Europe and talents from the local league. Placed in a challenging group with Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan, the Leopards know that the mission will be tough. But the Congolese team intends to give its all to make this historic return at the highest level.
The French coach will be able to rely on several key players familiar with major competitions. In defense, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Chancel Mbemba, and Arthur Masuaku will bring their international experience, while the midfield will be structured around players like Gaël Kakuta, Charles Pickel, and Samuel Moutoussamy. Offensively, hopes will rest notably on Yoane Wissa, Simon Banza, and Cédric Bakambu, tasked with leading the Congolese attack against very high-level opponents.
A return awaited since 1974
The DRC last participated in a World Cup in 1974 in Germany, under the name Zaire. This qualification thus represents a major event for all Congolese football.
With a talented group and a positive momentum since Desabre’s arrival, the Leopards now hope to write a new chapter in their history and prove that they can compete with the best nations in the world.
The DRC squad:
Goalkeepers:
- Lionel Mpasi (Le Havre)
- Timothy Fayulu (FC Noah)
- Matthieu Epolo (Standard de Liège)
Defenders:
- Chancel Mbemba (Lille)
- Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham)
- Axel Tuanzebe (Burnley)
- Arthur Masuaku (Lens)
- Joris Kayembe (Genk)
- Steve Kapuadi (Widzew Łódź)
- Rocky Bushri (Hibernian)
- Dylan Batubinsika (Larissa)
- Gedeon Kalulu (Aris Limassol)
Midfielders:
- Noah Sadiki (Sunderland)
- Samuel Moutoussamy (Atromitos)
- Edo Kayembe (Watford)
- Ngal’ayel Mukau (Lille)
- Charles Pickel (Espanyol)
- Nathanael Mbuku (Augsburg)
- Brian Sipanga (Castellon)
- Gael Kakuta (Larissa)
- Meschack Elia (Alanyaspor)
- Théo Bongonda (Spartak Moscow)
Forwards:
- Fiston Mayele (Pyramids)
- Cédric Bakambu (Real Betis)
- Simon Banza (Al Jazira Club)
- Yoane Wissa (Newcastle)