The Democratic Republic of Congo has officially announced its roster for the forthcoming World Cup, bringing together a blend of established talent and promising players. Among the key names making the cut are West Ham's defensive stalwart Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Newcastle United's forward, Yoane Wissa. This selection signifies a strategic move by coach Sebastien Desabre to bolster the team's capabilities across various positions, aiming for a strong performance on the global stage. The squad announcement has generated considerable excitement, particularly given the inclusion of players who have demonstrated their prowess in top European leagues.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka, a 28-year-old defender from Croydon, initially represented England at the Under-21 level and received a call-up to the senior squad in 2019, though he did not feature in a match. In August 2025, Wan-Bissaka made the decision to switch his international allegiance to DR Congo, where he has since earned nine caps for the Leopards. His inclusion is expected to bring a robust defensive presence and valuable experience to the team. Yoane Wissa, the Newcastle United striker, has also been named in the squad, marking his return after being omitted from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations roster. Wissa has faced challenges with his form and injuries since his transfer to Newcastle from Brentford last summer, making his selection a testament to his potential and the coach's confidence in his abilities.
The squad further includes Axel Tuanzebe, a defender from Burnley, and Rocky Bushiri, a centre-back from Hibernian, despite Bushiri recently sustaining a suspected Achilles injury during a match against Motherwell. Midfielders Edo Kayembe of Watford and Noah Sadiki from Sunderland have also secured their spots. Additionally, the experienced 34-year-old Gael Kakuta, formerly of Chelsea, has been recalled to the team. Kakuta's return is notable, as he has only played twice for the Congolese national team over the past two years, indicating a renewed focus on his contributions.
DR Congo is set to compete in Group K of the World Cup finals, where they will face formidable opponents: Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan. The country's last appearance at the World Cup was in 1974, when they were known as Zaire. During that tournament in West Germany, they lost all three of their matches, including a significant 9-0 defeat to Yugoslavia. A memorable moment from that campaign involved Zaire's Mwepu Ilunga famously breaking from his team's wall to kick the ball away as Brazil prepared for a free-kick, a moment that continues to be recalled in football history.
The complete squad selection for DR Congo's World Cup campaign reflects a strategic vision to combine youthful energy with seasoned experience. The goalkeeping contingent features Matthieu Epolo (Standard Liege), Timothy Fayulu (Noah), and Lionel Mpasi (Le Havre). The defense is composed of Dylan Batubinsika (Larisa), Rocky Bushiri (Hibernian), Gedoon Kalulu (Aris Limassol), Steve Kapuadi (Widzew Lodz), Joris Kayembe (Racing Genk), Arthur Masuaku (Racing Lens), Chancel Mbemba (Lille), Axel Tuanzebe (Burnley), and Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham United). Midfielders include Theo Bongonda (Spartak Moscow), Brian Cipenga (Castellon), Meshack Elia (Alanyaspor), Gael Kakuta (Larisa), Edo Kayembe (Watford), Nathanael Mbuku (Montpellier), Samuel Moutoussamy (Atromitos), Ngal'ayel Mukau (Lille), Charles Pickel (Espanyol), and Noah Sadiki (Sunderland). The attacking lineup boasts Cedric Bakambu (Real Betis), Simon Banza (Al Jazira), Fiston Mayele (Pyramids), and Yoane Wissa (Newcastle United).
The announcement of DR Congo's World Cup squad underscores a commitment to fielding a competitive team capable of challenging strong international opponents. The inclusion of key players like Wan-Bissaka and Wissa, alongside other talented individuals, signifies the nation's aspirations for a successful tournament. This diverse and experienced roster aims to make a significant impact and represent DR Congo with pride and determination on the global football stage.
