DR Congo hit by withdrawals ahead of crucial World Cup playoff

DR Congo have been dealt a significant setback ahead of their decisive World Cup playoff, with a series of withdrawals and injury concerns disrupting preparations just ten days before the match.

The Leopards are preparing for the intercontinental playoff final on 31 March, where they will face the winner of the match between New Caledonia and Jamaica.

However, their build-up has been overshadowed by the absence and uncertainty surrounding several key players.

In total, five players initially selected are either unavailable or facing late fitness tests, leaving the technical staff with difficult decisions as the fixture approaches.

Two absences have already been confirmed.

Defender Axel Tuanzebe will not take part after it was announced by his club that he is unlikely to return to action before mid-April.

His absence removes a key figure from the defensive line at a critical moment.

Jérémy Ngakia has also been ruled out.

The right-back, who had been called up as a replacement for the injured Gédéon Kalulu, sustained an injury himself, further weakening options in defence.

Beyond these confirmed withdrawals, three additional players remain doubtful.

Winger Meschack Elia has not featured for his club after picking up an injury in training, leaving uncertainty over his availability.

Midfielder Samuel Moutoussamy is also a concern.

Despite recently scoring in the Greek league, he was forced off injured in his latest match, and his participation will depend on further medical assessment.

Edo Kayembe’s situation adds to the uncertainty.

The Watford player, who found the net in a 3-1 win for his club, was later hospitalised following an injury sustained late in that game.

Faced with these setbacks, the Congolese coaching staff are considering late adjustments to the squad, although no official replacements have yet been confirmed.

The disruption comes at a crucial stage, with qualification for the 2026 World Cup at stake and little time remaining to rebuild cohesion before the decisive encounter.

Finale des barrages du Mondial : Tuanzebe forfait, Elia, Moutoussamy et Edo Kayembe incertains https://t.co/3vvM28M0VX

— 7SUR7.CD (@7sur7_cd) March 20, 2026