DR Congo drop players named in Nigeria’s eligibility complaint ahead of World Cup playoff

DR Congo national team has left out two players cited in a formal complaint by the Nigeria Football Federation, as it named its 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup intercontinental play-offs.

Head coach Sébastien Desabre revealed the lineup on Wednesday, retaining much of the squad that eliminated Nigeria in the African play-off round in Morocco last year.

The Leopards advanced after a 4–3 penalty shootout victory.

Captain Chancel Mbemba will lead the team, joined by seasoned campaigners Cédric Bakambu, Yoane Wissa, and Samuel Moutoussamy as DR Congo seeks a second World Cup appearance.

The exclusion of Michel‑Ange Balikwisha and Mario Stroeykens, both referenced in Nigeria’s FIFA petition over alleged eligibility violations, drew immediate attention. Only Matheu Epolo, the third player mentioned in the complaint, made the squad.

Nigeria lodged its protest following the play-off defeat, claiming the Congolese Association Football Federation misrepresented nationality switches for several overseas-born players.

In a petition made public on December 15, 2025, the Nigerian federation called on FIFA to investigate and consider disqualifying DR Congo if the allegations were confirmed.