World Cup 2026 - African play-offs: These "ex-Belgians" who strengthen the DR Congo squad

The 25-man DR Congo squad aiming to propel the Leopards into the continental play-offs for the 2026 World Cup has now been revealed.

Head coach Sébastien Desabre has opted to inject fresh blood ahead of their African play-off semi-final against Cameroon, scheduled for November 13 at 19:00 GMT at the El Barid Stadium in Rabat.

The French tactician has called up Mario Stroeykens, a former Belgian youth international who currently plays as a forward for Anderlecht.

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Two other former Belgian prospects also make the list: Standard Liège goalkeeper Matthieu Epolo and Celtic Glasgow winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha.

Notable absentees include Yoane Wissa, Dimitry Bertaud, Grady Diangana, Dylan Batubinsika, and Afimuco Pilulu.

The Leopards squad:

Goalkeepers: Timothy Fayulu, Lionel Mpasi-Nzau, Matthieu Epolo

Defenders: Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Gédéon Kalulu, Arthur Masuaku, Joris Kayembe, Steve Nkanu Kapuadi, Rocky Bushiri, Axel Tuanzebe, Chancel Mbemba.

Midfielders: Noah Sadiki, Edo Kayembe, Samuel Moutoussamy, Charles Pickel, Ngal’ayel Mukau, Mario Stroeykens, Théo Bongonda, Michel-Ange Balikwisha, Nathanaël Mbuku

Forwards: Brian Cipenga, Meschack Elia, Fiston Mayele, Samuel Essende, Cédric Bakambu.

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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