DR Congo v Sierra Leone: Probable line-ups for 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier

DR Congo face Sierra Leone on Thursday, 12 November 2026, in the third round of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Kick-off is scheduled for 16:00 GMT, with both sides preparing for a match in which their starting formations could prove decisive.

DR Congo

Sebastien Desabre is expected to set DR Congo up in a 4-4-2 formation, but the system is not intended simply to prioritise defensive security.

The back four are likely to remain compact in an attempt to prevent Sierra Leone from exploiting spaces between the lines. In front of them, the two central midfielders will be responsible for directing the play and helping the team deal with the visitors’ initial press.

The wide players will also have an important role. Their responsibilities are expected to include making overlapping runs, delivering early crosses and recovering quickly when possession is lost, ensuring that space is not left open on either flank.

Up front, the partnership should combine different qualities. One striker is expected to provide a focal point by holding up the ball and bringing others into play, while the other will look to run beyond the defence and attack the final line.

DR Congo probable XI

Goalkeeper: Matthieu Epolo

Defenders: A. Wan-Bissaka, C. Mbemba, Gedeon Kalulu, A. Masuaku

Midfielders: S. Moutoussamy, Edo Kayembe, Theo Bongonda, N. Mbuku

Forwards: Yoane Wissa, Noah Sadiki

Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone are expected to use a 3-5-2, with the formation designed to protect the centre of the pitch, increase the number of individual battles and help the Leone Stars avoid a third consecutive defeat.

Much will depend on the wing-backs. They will need to contribute defensively from deep before pushing forward, with the aim of supporting the attacking players and ensuring they are not left isolated.

The central midfield three will face the physical challenge posed by DR Congo. Their tasks will include competing for second balls, resisting the pressure in the middle of the pitch and moving possession forward quickly.

If Sierra Leone can maintain their shape, the system could allow them to threaten on the counter-attack. However, if the midfield and defensive structure breaks down, they risk spending long periods under pressure.

Sierra Leone probable XI

Goalkeeper: M. Jalloh

Defenders: A. Turay, Juma Bah, S. Tarawallie

Midfielders: O. Kakay, Alhassan Koroma, Tyrese Fornah, I. Kanu, Saidu Bah Kamara

Forwards: M. Kamara, A. Conteh

Ahead of the third-round qualifier, 1xbet lists DR Congo as favourites at 1.20 to win. A draw is priced at 5.75, while Sierra Leone are rated at 14.20.