DR Congo Unveils Star-Studded 25-Man Squad for World Cup Playoff Clash — Possible Showdown with Nigeria Looms
By FRED LONGJOHN OBEH
THE Democratic Republic of Congo has unveiled a powerful 25-man squad ahead of their crucial CAF World Cup qualifying playoff clash with Cameroon, set for November 13, 2025, at the Stade El Barid in Rabat, Morocco.
Head coach Sébastien Desabre has assembled a formidable team that fuses international pedigree with emerging young talent, signalling the Leopards’ intent to make a deep run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Top Stars Lead the Charge
Among the standout names are Aaron Wan-Bissaka of West Ham United, Chancel Mbemba of Lille, Theo Bongonda of Spartak Moscow, and Cédric Bakambu of Real Betis, all of whom bring top-flight European experience and leadership to the squad.
Desabre’s midfield selection is equally strong, featuring Samuel Moutoussamy, Charles Pickel, Michaël Balikwisha, and Edo Kayembe — a technically gifted core expected to dictate tempo and transition play against the Indomitable Lions.
In-Form Striker Earns Call-Up
Notably, Fiston Mayele, the only home-based player, has been rewarded for his blistering form with Pyramids FC in Egypt. His inclusion highlights Desabre’s commitment to rewarding consistent domestic performances, especially in a side packed with foreign-based stars.
High Stakes and Regional Pride
The fixture is being touted as one of Central Africa’s biggest football battles, as both DR Congo and Cameroon chase a coveted place in the next phase of qualifiers. The winner of the tie will advance to face either Nigeria’s Super Eagles or Gabon in the playoff final.
The eventual victor will then progress to the Intercontinental Playoffs in March 2026, where Africa’s remaining hopefuls will compete for the last available tickets to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
With Desabre’s squad brimming with quality and determination, football fans across Africa are already anticipating an explosive showdown in Rabat — one that could reshape the continent’s World Cup journey.
