Congo DR's return to the World Cup after a 52-year absence is one of the most remarkable stories of the 2026 tournament. The Leopards, as they are known, last appeared in 1974 as Zaire, becoming the first sub-Saharan African nation to reach the tournament only to lose all three matches and concede 14 goals. Half a century later, this is a completely different team: a squad built around Premier League and European league regulars, with genuine individual quality in every position. Drawn in Group F against Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan, Congo DR faces an uphill battle to advance, but the talent on the roster makes them a dangerous opponent for anyone.
The transformation of Congolese football over the past decade has been driven by the diaspora. Players born or raised in Europe, primarily France and England, have chosen to represent their ancestral homeland, raising the squad's quality dramatically. The result is a team that can compete physically with European sides and match South American opponents for technical skill. As our guide to all 48 qualified teams outlines, Congo DR is one of four African debutants at this tournament, alongside Cape Verde, who are making their first-ever appearance.
The squad
Manager Sebastien Desabre has assembled a squad that is remarkably strong in defense and attack, with a Premier League-quality spine running through the team. The defensive unit features Aaron Wan-Bissaka, one of the best one-on-one defenders in English football, alongside Axel Tuanzebe, who brings Manchester United academy pedigree, and Chancel Mbemba, the experienced Marseille center-back who has been the defensive anchor for nearly a decade.
In midfield, the blend of Charles Pickel's defensive steel and Samuel Moutoussamy's ball-carrying ability provides balance. The attack is where Congo DR is most exciting: Yoane Wissa's Premier League pace, Silas Katompa Mvumpa's dribbling, and Cédric Bakambu's finishing give Desabre multiple ways to hurt opponents.
| Position | Player | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Lionel Mpasi | First choice, reliable shot-stopper |
| Goalkeeper | M. Epolo | Backup, athletic |
| Goalkeeper | T. Fayulu | Experienced third choice |
| Defender | Aaron Wan-Bissaka | West Ham, elite one-on-one defender |
| Defender | Axel Tuanzebe | Versatile, physical center-back |
| Defender | Chancel Mbemba | Marseille, experienced leader |
| Defender | Arthur Masuaku | Left-back, attacking threat |
| Defender | D. Batubinsika | Center-back, aerial presence |
| Defender | S. Kapuadi | Defensive depth |
| Defender | R. Bushiri | Young center-back, promising |
| Defender | J. Kayembe | Full-back cover |
| Midfielder | Charles Pickel | Defensive midfielder, enforcer |
| Midfielder | Samuel Moutoussamy | Ball-carrying midfielder |
| Midfielder | E. Kayembe | Box-to-box energy |
| Midfielder | N. Mukau | Deep-lying playmaker |
| Midfielder | N. Sadiki | Young talent, creative |
| Midfielder | B. Cipenga | Midfield rotation |
| Attacker | Yoane Wissa | Brentford, Premier League proven |
| Attacker | Cédric Bakambu | Experienced striker, clinical |
| Attacker | Théo Bongonda | Winger, pace and trickery |
| Attacker | F. Mayele | Target man, aerial threat |
| Attacker | Meschack Elia | Young forward, dynamic |
| Attacker | S. Banza | Versatile forward |
| Attacker | N. Mbuku | Wide forward, dribbler |
Recent form and qualifying campaign
Congo DR's qualifying campaign was defined by a single, extraordinary result: a 1-0 home victory over Senegal on the final matchday that overturned a two-point deficit and sent the Leopards to the World Cup at Senegal's expense. The goal, scored by Meschack Elia in the 67th minute from a Wissa assist, triggered celebrations across Kinshasa and the Congolese diaspora across Europe. The campaign was built on defensive solidity: Congo DR conceded just four goals in six final-round matches, the best defensive record in their group.
Before qualifying, Congo DR reached the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where they pushed eventual champions Ivory Coast to penalties before bowing out. That tournament showed Desabre's team could compete with the best in Africa, and the qualifying campaign confirmed it. The back five of Mpasi, Wan-Bissaka, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, and Masuaku has developed genuine chemistry, conceding just three goals in their last eight matches together.
In 2025 friendlies, Congo DR has been cautiously impressive. A 1-0 win over South Korea showcased the defensive discipline and counter-attacking quality that will be their identity at the World Cup. A 0-0 draw with Turkey and a 2-1 loss to Mexico showed the team can compete with mid-tier opponents but struggles against high-pressing sides that dominate possession. The pattern is clear: Congo DR is a tough, organized opponent that will not be easy to beat, but creating their own chances against elite teams remains a challenge.
Tactical system
Sebastien Desabre sets up Congo DR in a 3-4-2-1 that prioritizes defensive solidity and rapid transitions. The back three of Mbemba, Tuanzebe, and Batubinsika is physically imposing and comfortable defending deep. Wingbacks Masuaku and Wan-Bissaka provide width, with Masuaku pushing high on the left to support the attack while Wan-Bissaka stays more conservative on the right, using his tackling ability to break up opposition counters.
The midfield double pivot of Pickel and Moutoussamy is the engine room. Pickel sits deep, winning tackles and intercepting passes, while Moutoussamy carries the ball forward and links with the attacking players. The two number tens, typically Wissa dropping from a forward position and Bongonda or Mbuku drifting inside, operate between the lines and look to exploit space behind opposition fullbacks.
The attacking strategy is simple but effective: soak up pressure, win the ball in the middle third, and launch Wissa and the wide players behind the defense. Against Portugal's possession-heavy approach, this could yield opportunities on the break. Against Colombia, who play a more direct style, the game will be more open and Congo DR's defense will be tested aerially. The weakness is sustained possession: when Congo DR needs to control the ball and break down a low block, they lack the creative midfielders to unlock packed defenses.
Group stage path
Group F is one of the toughest draws for any African side at this tournament. Portugal, with their squad of Champions League winners, are the clear favorites. Colombia, a quarter-finalist at the 2023 Copa América, brings South American flair and physicality. Uzbekistan, the Asian qualifier, is the weakest team in the group on paper but has shown they can be competitive. Congo DR will need to be at their absolute best to escape this group.
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| June 17 | Portugal vs Congo DR | NRG Stadium |
| June 24 | Colombia vs Congo DR | Estadio Akron |
| June 27 | Congo DR vs Uzbekistan | Mercedes-Benz Stadium |
The opener against Portugal is the most daunting fixture. Portugal's attacking talent, from Bruno Fernandes to Rafael Leão, will test Congo DR's defensive structure from the first minute. A heavy defeat here would damage goal difference and make advancement significantly harder. The realistic target is damage limitation: keep the score close, maybe steal a goal on the counter, and preserve confidence for the remaining matches.
The Colombia match on June 24 is the pivotal fixture. Colombia, as detailed in our Colombia profile, plays a physical, direct style that Congo DR can match. This is where Wan-Bissaka's one-on-one defending and Mbemba's aerial ability will be most valuable. A draw here keeps Congo DR alive; a win could transform the group standings.
The group finale against Uzbekistan on June 27 is the must-win match. Uzbekistan is the lowest-ranked team in the group, and Congo DR's physical and technical superiority should tell over 90 minutes. If Congo DR enters this match with a point from the first two games, a win against Uzbekistan could be enough to secure third place and a best-third-place qualification spot. As our complete group stage preview explains, the expanded 48-team format means third place is no longer a death sentence.
World Cup prediction
Congo DR's most realistic outcome is third place in Group F, which could be enough to advance to the Round of 32 as one of the best third-placed teams. The likely scenario is a loss to Portugal (0-2 or 1-2), a competitive draw against Colombia (1-1), and a win against Uzbekistan (2-0). Four points would put Congo DR in a strong position for a best-third-place spot.
The floor is a group-stage exit if the defense collapses against Portugal's attack or if Wissa and the forwards fail to convert against Uzbekistan. The ceiling is a second-place finish if they can beat Colombia and Uzbekistan, which would set up a Round of 32 match and potentially a Round of 16 run. A Round of 16 appearance would be the greatest achievement in Congolese football history, surpassing even the 1974 qualification.
Everything depends on the defensive unit staying healthy and disciplined. If Mbemba, Wan-Bissaka, and Tuanzebe play to their potential, Congo DR will not be easy to beat. If the defense has an off day against Portugal, the goal difference damage could be fatal to their advancement hopes even before the Uzbekistan match.
Key players to watch
Yoane Wissa (Forward, Brentford)
Wissa is Congo DR's most important player and the one genuine Premier League-quality forward in the squad. His pace, intelligent movement, and pressing ability make him the perfect weapon for Desabre's counter-attacking system. At Brentford, he has proven he can score against elite defenses, with goals against Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea in recent seasons. Against Portugal and Colombia, Wissa will be the outlet ball, the player Congo DR looks to when they win possession in their own half. His conversion rate in qualifying was excellent: three goals from eight shots on target. If Wissa is fit and firing, Congo DR has a chance in every match.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka (Right wing-back, West Ham)
Wan-Bissaka's inclusion in the Congo DR squad is one of the most significant diaspora decisions in African football. The former Manchester United right-back, known for his exceptional tackling and one-on-one defending, brings a level of defensive quality that few African teams possess in wide positions. In Desabre's 3-4-2-1, Wan-Bissaka operates as a right wing-back who prioritizes defense over attack. His task against Portugal will be to contain Rafael Leão or whichever left-sided attacker Portugal deploys. It is a fascinating tactical battle that could determine the outcome of that match.
Chancel Mbemba (Center-back, Marseille)
The defensive leader and the most experienced player in the squad. Mbemba has been a consistent starter in Ligue 1 for multiple seasons, and his composure, aerial ability, and positional sense are the foundation of Congo DR's defensive structure. He organizes the back three, communicates constantly, and makes the crucial interceptions that start counter-attacks. Against Colombia's physical forwards, Mbemba's strength in aerial duels will be essential. His partnership with Tuanzebe is the most important defensive relationship in the squad.
Cédric Bakambu (Striker)
Bakambu brings something Congo DR lacks elsewhere: a proven goalscorer at the highest European level. With experience at Villarreal, Beijing Guoan, and Olympiacos, Bakambu has scored consistently wherever he has played. His finishing, particularly inside the penalty area, is clinical, and his movement creates space for Wissa and the wide players to exploit. At 35, this is his final World Cup opportunity, and his experience in high-pressure matches will be invaluable for a squad with limited tournament pedigree. If Congo DR scores from open play, there is a strong chance Bakambu is involved.
FAQ
Is this Congo DR's first World Cup appearance?
No. Congo DR appeared in the 1974 World Cup as Zaire, becoming the first sub-Saharan African team to qualify. They lost all three matches, including a famous 9-0 defeat to Yugoslavia. The 2026 tournament is their second appearance, ending a 52-year absence.
What group is Congo DR in at the 2026 World Cup?
Congo DR is drawn in Group F alongside Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan. It is one of the toughest groups for an African side, with both Portugal and Colombia ranked significantly higher in the FIFA rankings.
Who is Congo DR's best player?
Yoane Wissa is the standout player. The Brentford forward has proven himself in the Premier League with pace, pressing, and clinical finishing. Aaron Wan-Bissaka, the West Ham right-back, brings elite defensive quality, and Arthur Masuaku provides experience from multiple European leagues.
How did Congo DR qualify for the 2026 World Cup?
Congo DR qualified through the CAF pathway, topping their final qualifying group ahead of Senegal on goal difference. A 2-0 away win against Sudan and a 1-0 home victory over Senegal in the final matchday sealed their place at the tournament.
Can Congo DR advance from Group F?
It is very difficult but not impossible. Portugal and Colombia are strong favorites for the top two spots. Congo DR's best chance is finishing third and qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams. To do this, they need to beat Uzbekistan and avoid heavy defeats against Portugal and Colombia.
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Sources
- API-Football: Congo DR national team squad data and qualification statistics (fetched May 2026)
- FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture list and group stage draw (FIFA.com)
- CAF World Cup 2026 qualifying final round group standings and results
- Wikipedia: Congo DR national football team history and 1974 World Cup record
- Premier League: Yoane Wissa and Aaron Wan-Bissaka season statistics (2025-26)