DR Congo Names Squad for Decisive World Cup Clash
Democratic Republic of Congo coach Sébastien Desabre has selected a 25-man squad for the critical 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Cameroon. The playoff match will occur on November 13 at Rabat’s El Barid Stadium in Morocco.
This semi-final fixture forms part of a four-team playoff tournament. The victorious team will advance to face either Nigeria or Gabon four days later. A World Cup intercontinental playoff spot in Mexico awaits the winner.
Squad Composition and New Faces
Desabre’s selection features players primarily from European clubs. Pyramids FC’s Fiston Mayele stands as the sole Africa-based representative. Three Belgian-born talents received their first senior call-ups:
- Mario Stroeykens (Anderlecht captain)
- Michel-Ange Balikwisha (Celtic winger)
- Matthieu Epolo (Standard Liège goalkeeper)
Key returning players include:
- Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham)
- Arthur Masuaku (Sunderland)
- Chancel Mbemba (Marseille)
- Axel Tuanzebe (Burnley)
- Cedric Bakambu (Real Betis)
Notable Absence and Qualification Journey
Newcastle United forward Yoane Wissa misses selection. He continues recovering from a posterior cruciate ligament injury sustained against Senegal in September.
DR Congo narrowly missed direct World Cup qualification last month. They required Senegal to drop points on the final matchday. However, Senegal secured top spot with a 4-0 victory over Mauritania. DR Congo finished second despite defeating Sudan 1-0.
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