DR Congo recall Cédric Bakambu as Desabre names squad for Sierra Leone double-header

DR Congo have named a 26-man squad for their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Sierra Leone, with experienced striker Cédric Bakambu among the notable inclusions.

Head coach Sébastien Desabre announced his selection on Friday, November 6, as the Leopards prepare for the third and fourth matchdays of the qualifying campaign.

Bakambu returns to the national team after missing the previous squad selection. The San Diego FC forward’s inclusion provides Desabre with another attacking option as DR Congo look to strengthen their position in the race for qualification to the 2027 tournament.

Midfielder Noah Mbamba has also earned a return to the squad after missing the previous international break through injury. His availability offers the technical team another option in the middle of the park.

However, the Leopards will be without several players for the upcoming fixtures. Aaron Wan-Bissaka misses out due to injury, while Mario Stroeykens, Samuel Essende, Anthony Musaba and Paris Maghoma have also been left out of the selection.

Desabre has nevertheless retained a strong core of experienced players, including Chancel Mbemba, Arthur Masuaku, Yoane Wissa, Cédric Bakambu and Fiston Mayele.

The two meetings with Sierra Leone will be important for DR Congo as they continue their pursuit of a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Desabre will be hoping his squad can deliver the results needed to maintain their qualification ambitions.

DR Congo squad

Goalkeepers: Bertaud, Fayulu, Epolo.

Defenders: Kalulu, Pedro, J. Kayembe, Makengo, Masuaku, Tuanzebe, Kapuadi, Mbemba, Kambwala.

Midfielders: Edo Kayembe, Banzuzi, Moutoussamy, Mukau, Sadiki, Mbamba.

Forwards: Kadile, Cipenga, Elia, Mbuku, Wissa, Mayele, Banza, Bakambu