Rocky Bushiri ruled out of World Cup squad as DR Congo confirm last-minute change

DR Congo have suffered a setback ahead of the 2026 World Cup after defender Rocky Bushiri was ruled out of the tournament through injury, forcing a late reshuffle in their defensive ranks.

Bushiri, who had been named in the national team’s final squad for the global showpiece, picked up an injury in training and will miss the competition entirely. The setback ends his hopes of featuring on football’s biggest stage this summer.

The national team management has moved quickly to fill the gap, confirming midfielder Aaron Tshibola as his replacement in the squad.

Tshibola, an experienced option in DR Congo’s pool, steps into the group as the team adjusts its plans just weeks before the tournament kicks off.

The switch offers him another opportunity on the international stage after previous involvement with the Leopards setup.

The development is a blow for DR Congo’s defensive depth as preparations intensify, but officials are expected to continue final tuning ahead of their World Cup campaign.

Meanwhile, DR Congo will come up against Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan in Group K.