Yoane Wissa returns to DR Congo squad for decisive World Cup qualifier in Mexico

DR Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre has announced his squad for the decisive intercontinental playoff that will determine whether the Leopards keep their hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup alive.

The list, revealed on Wednesday, includes the return of several players, most notably Yoane Wissa, who is back in the national team set-up for the crucial encounter in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Defender Dylan Batubinsika, full-back Jeremie Ngakia and winger Grady Diangana have also been recalled as Desabre prepares his side for the high-stakes fixture.

However, there was no place in the squad for Afimico Pululu or Michel-Ange Balikwisha.

The Leopards will travel to Mexico knowing that victory in the playoff is essential if they are to secure a place at the expanded 2026 tournament.

Desabre has opted for a blend of experience and emerging talent across all areas of the squad.

Goalkeepers

Three goalkeepers have been selected, including Timothy Fayulu of FC Noah in Armenia and Lionel Mpasi from French side Le Havre. They are joined by Matthieu Epolo of Standard Liège in Belgium.

Defenders

The defensive unit features several players competing in Europe’s top leagues. Aaron Wan-Bissaka of West Ham United and Watford’s Jeremie Ngakia provide options at full-back.

Other defenders include Joris Kayembe, Arthur Masuaku, Steve Kapuadi, Rocky Bushiri, Axel Tuanzebe, Chancel Mbemba and the returning Dylan Batubinsika.

Midfielders

In midfield, Desabre has chosen a wide pool of options including Noah Sadiki, Samuel Moutoussamy, Edo Kayembe and Ngal’ayel Mukau.

They are joined by Charles Pickel, Nathanaël Mbuku, Boris Cipenga, Grady Diangana, Meschack Elia and Théo Bongonda.

Forwards

Up front, the Leopards will rely on a group of experienced attackers. Fiston Mayele, Cédric Bakambu and Simon Banza all retain their places in the squad.

They are joined by the returning Yoane Wissa, who adds further attacking depth ahead of the decisive match.

The announcement sets the stage for a crucial playoff encounter in Mexico, where DR Congo will attempt to take the final step towards qualification for the 2026 World Cup.