2026 World Cup: 5 dual-national talents on DR Congo's radar

The Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA) is looking to bolster the Leopards' squad with new dual-national gems ahead of their participation in the 2026 World Cup.

The two-time African champions secured their ticket to the World Cup after a narrow victory over Jamaica in the intercontinental playoff final, thanks to a crucial goal from Axel Tuanzebe.

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Here are five dual-national prospects who could strengthen DR Congo’s ranks at the 2026 World Cup.

Alonzo Engwanda

A former youth international for Belgium, the FC Utrecht player remains eligible to represent the Congolese national team.

Versatile on the pitch, he can play as a central defender, defensive midfielder, or box-to-box midfielder.

In 44 appearances this season, he hasn’t scored but has provided two assists.

Arnaud Kalimuendo

The Eintracht Frankfurt striker has represented all of France’s youth teams but can also switch his sporting nationality to Congolese.

Under contract with Nottingham Forest until 2030, the 24-year-old is currently playing for the German club on loan.

This season, he has made 26 appearances across all competitions, scoring 6 goals and providing 1 assist.

Dilane Bakwa

Born in France to Congolese parents, the 23-year-old has played for various French youth teams but remains eligible to wear the Leopards' jersey.

Trained at Bordeaux, Bakwa joined RC Strasbourg in 2023 for €10 million before being signed by Nottingham Forest during the last summer transfer window for €35 million.

In 23 matches this season, he has scored once and delivered four assists.

Obed Nkambadio

The Paris FC goalkeeper has worn the colors of France’s youth teams but can still switch his sporting allegiance to Congo.

His market value is currently estimated at €6 million by specialist site Transfermarkt.

He has featured in 14 matches in the 2025-2026 season, conceding 22 goals and keeping 3 clean sheets.

Samuel Mbangula

At 22, the SV Werder Bremen striker is still waiting for a call-up from the Belgian national team, which could prompt him to opt for the Leopards.

Trained at Brugge and then Anderlecht, he moved to Juventus at a young age before being signed by the German club for €10 million.

This season, he has played 22 matches, scoring 3 goals and providing 4 assists.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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