DR Congo

World Cup 2026 Analysis

DR Congo's 2026 FIFA World Cup Bid: One Step Away from Qualification

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) national football team, known as the Leopards, are on the brink of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After a compelling run in the African qualifiers, they have secured a spot in the inter-confederation play-offs, scheduled for March 2026 in Mexico. This marks a significant milestone in their quest for a first World Cup appearance since 1974, when they competed as Zaire.

Qualification Pathway and Recent Performance

DR Congo finished as runners-up in their initial CAF qualification group, Group B, accumulating 22 points from 10 matches. Their record in the group stage included 7 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses, with an impressive goal difference of +9 (15 goals scored, 6 conceded).

Their strong group stage performance propelled them into the CAF second round, a four-team playoff tournament held in Morocco in November 2025. In the semi-final, the Leopards faced Cameroon, securing a dramatic 1-0 victory with a stoppage-time goal from captain Chancel Mbemba. This win set up a highly anticipated final against Nigeria, who had overcome Gabon in their semi-final.

The CAF playoff final against Nigeria on November 16, 2025, was a tightly contested affair. After a 1-1 draw in regular time and extra time, with Meschack Elia equalizing for DR Congo after Nigeria took an early lead, the match went to a penalty shootout. Goalkeeper Timothy Fayulu, substituted on in the final minute of extra time, emerged as the hero, making two crucial saves. Captain Chancel Mbemba then converted the decisive spot-kick, sealing a 4-3 penalty shootout victory for DR Congo and sending them to the inter-confederation play-offs.

Team Overview and Key Players

Under the guidance of head coach Sébastien Desabre, who recently signed a five-year contract extension until May 2029, DR Congo has demonstrated a blend of defensive resilience and opportunistic attacking play. Desabre, who took over in August 2022, has been credited with rebuilding the national team, leading them to an impressive fourth-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

The squad features a mix of experienced European-based stars and emerging talents. Key players who have been instrumental in their World Cup qualifying campaign include:

• Chancel Mbemba (Captain): The Lille defender is a stalwart at the back and proved his leadership by scoring the winning goal against Cameroon and the decisive penalty against Nigeria.
• Cédric Bakambu: The Real Betis striker was the team's top scorer in the qualifiers with four goals and is expected to lead the attack.
• Meschack Elia: The forward scored the crucial equalizer against Nigeria in the CAF playoff final.
• Timothy Fayulu: The FC Sion goalkeeper's heroic performance in the penalty shootout against Nigeria highlighted his importance.
• Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham United), Arthur Masuaku, and Axel Tuanzebe (Ipswich Town): These European-based defenders provide a strong defensive foundation.
• Théo Bongonda (Spartak Moscow), Samuel Moutoussamy, Charles Pickel, Michaël Balikwisha, and Edo Kayembe: These midfielders contribute to the team's energy and creativity.
• Fiston Mayele (Pyramids FC): The only Africa-based player in recent squads, he remains a vital attacking option.

The team's success is attributed to Desabre's tactical choices, effective game management, and a stable squad that has embraced playing away from home.

Prospects for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

DR Congo's journey continues to the six-team FIFA Play-Off Tournament in March 2026 in Mexico, where two more spots for the 48-team World Cup will be decided. The Leopards will face the winner of the semi-final match between New Caledonia and Jamaica. A victory in this final play-off match would secure their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Should DR Congo qualify, they are projected to be placed in Pot 4 for the World Cup group stage draw, which will take place on December 5, 2025, in Washington D.C.

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In addition to their World Cup qualifying efforts, DR Congo is also competing in the Africa Cup of Nations. As of December 30, 2025, they secured a spot in the last 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Botswana 3-0, with Gael Kakuta scoring twice and assisting another goal. They are set to face Algeria in the next round of the tournament. This ongoing participation in a major continental tournament will keep the squad in competitive form as they prepare for the crucial inter-confederation play-offs in March.