Sébastien Desabre has unveiled his 26-man DR Congo squad for the forthcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup set to kick off on June 11, 2026.
The Democratic Republic of Congo last featured at the World Cup in 1974, when the country, then known as Zaire, became the first sub-Saharan African nation to qualify for the tournament.
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That historic milestone remains a proud reference point in Congolese football history, and now a new generation has the chance to create its own legacy.
Desabre’s side head into the 2026 FIFA World Cup drawn in a tough Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan. While the challenge is significant, there is growing confidence that the Leopards possess the athleticism, organisation and attacking quality to compete at the highest level.
The French coach has built a balanced squad blending experience and youth, with captain Chancel Mbemba leading a strong defensive unit and Yoane Wissa expected to spearhead the attack alongside Cédric Bakambu and Simon Banza.
There is also creativity and control in midfield through Gaël Kakuta, Edo Kayembe and Samuel Moutoussamy, supported by emerging talents such as Noah Sadiki and Ngal’ayel Mukau.
DR Congo Squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Goalkeepers: Lionel Mpasi, Timothy Fayulu, Matthieu Epolo
Defenders: Chancel Mbemba, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, Arthur Masuaku, Joris Kayembe, Nathan Kpauadi, Rocky Bushiri, Dylan Batubinsika, Gédéon Kalulu
Midfielders: Noah Sadiki, Samuel Moutoussamy, Edo Kayembe, Ngal’ayel Mukau, Charles Pickel, Nathanaël Mbuku, Brian Cipenga, Gaël Kakuta, Meschack Elia, Théo Bongonda
Forwards: Fiston Mayele, Cédric Bakambu, Simon Banza, Yoane Wissa
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