2026 World Cup: Sébastien Desabre reveals his 26 Leopards to represent DR Congo

DR Congo Leopards head coach Sébastien Desabre officially announced his 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup this Monday, May 18. Unsurprisingly, the French tactician has opted for continuity, sticking with the core group that has carried the Congolese national team over the past four years.

For this World Cup squad, Desabre has favored players already integrated into his system. Several notable absences have already sparked reactions among fans, especially Afimico Pululu and Michel-Ange Balikwisha, who are not included in the final 26.

The coach admits that his choices were far from easy.

"We've used 55 players since I took charge. The choices were not easy, but they are part of a certain continuity," he stated.

An experienced squad

DR Congo will be able to rely on several key players competing in Europe's top leagues, such as Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Chancel Mbemba, Yoane Wissa, Cédric Bakambu, and Théo Bongonda.

Selected squad:

Goalkeepers

Timothy Fayulu

Lionel Mpasi

Mike Epolo

Defenders

Aaron Wan-Bissaka

Gédéon Kalulu

Joris Kayembe

Arthur Masuaku

Steve Kapuadi

Rocky Bushiri

Axel Tuanzebe

Chancel Mbemba

Dylan Batubinsika

Midfielders

Noah Sadiki

Samuel Moutoussamy

Edo Kayembe

Ngal’ayel Mukau

Charles Pickel

Nathanaël Mbuku

Brian Cipenga

Meschack Elia

Théo Bongonda

Forwards

Fiston Mayele

Cédric Bakambu

Simon Banza

Yoane Wissa

Nouya M'toama

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