Yoane Wissa returns as DR Congo coach Sébastien Desabre name squad for crucial 2026 World Cup playoff

Head coach of DR Congo Sébastien Desabre has unveiled his squad for the decisive intercontinental playoff that could see the Leopards return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time in half a century.

The French tactician named a strong squad headlined by the return of Newcastle United forward Yoane Wissa, alongside defender Dylan Batubinsika, full-back Jeremy Ngakia and winger Grady Diangana.

DR Congo booked their place in the intercontinental playoffs after defeating Nigeria in the African play-off final held in Morocco last November. The Leopards now stand just one victory away from securing a place at the FIFA World Cup — a tournament they have not featured in since 1974.

Desabre’s squad blends experience with emerging talent, featuring a number of players competing in Europe’s top leagues. The inclusion of Wissa, who has been in strong form at club level, provides a significant attacking boost as DR Congo aim to secure a historic qualification.

In defense, the Leopards will rely on the experience of captain Chancel Mbemba alongside versatile defenders such as Axel Tuanzebe and Arthur Masuaku. Midfield options include Samuel Moutoussamy, Edo Kayembe and Charles Pickel, while attacking threats like Theo Bongonda, Meshack Elia and Cedric Bakambu add firepower to the squad.

Strikers Fiston Mayele, Simon Banza and Bakambu will also be expected to play key roles as the Leopards chase a long-awaited return to football’s biggest stage.

With qualification within touching distance, DR Congo will be hoping this talented squad can deliver a historic result and send the Leopards back to the World Cup after more than five decades.

Below is the squad:

Goalkeepers: Timothé Fayulu, Lionel Mpasi-Nzau, Mathieu Epolo

Defenders: Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Jeremy Ngakia, Joris Kayembe, Arthur Masuaku, Steve Kapuadi, Rocky Bushiri, Axel Tuanzebe, Chancel Mbemba, Dylan Batubinsika

Midfielders: Noah Sadiki, Samuel Moutoussamy, Edo Kayembe, Ngala Mukaou, Charles Pickel, Nathanael Mbuku, Brian Silbenga, Grady Diangana, Meshack Elia, Theo Bongonda

Forwards: Fiston Mayele, Cedric Bakambu, Simon Banza, Yoane Wissa