This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among top media organizations from the 48 nations that qualified. Daily previews from three countries are being shared in anticipation of the tournament commencing on June 11.
Strategic Vision
The transformation of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) football team under coach Sébastien Desabre can be encapsulated by his assertion to Leopardsfoot: “Discipline must begin on the pitch.” The French tactician has introduced a sense of order to a national squad historically marked by unpredictability. More than just a coach, Desabre resembles an English-style manager, meticulously focusing on everything from defensive strategies to the federation’s communication protocols. Thus far, his methods have yielded positive results.
Initially, Desabre adopted a 4-2-3-1 formation upon his arrival in 2022, but he has gradually adjusted his tactical framework. The DRC now predominantly utilizes a compact 4-1-4-1 setup featuring a deep-lying midfielder, two dynamic No. 8s tasked with pressing and ball progression, and a diligent striker, often Cédric Bakambu, who spreads defenses with his movements.
DR Congo: Group K Fixtures
June 17 vs. Portugal, Houston (noon local, 6 PM BST, June 18 3 AM AEST)
June 23 vs. Colombia, Guadalajara (8 PM local, June 24 3 AM BST, June 18 noon AEST)
June 27 vs. Uzbekistan, Atlanta (7:30 PM local, June 28 0:30 AM BST, June 28 9:30 AM AEST)
The Leopards also show proficiency in switching to a three-man defense, a tactic notably employed during qualifiers against Togo and South Sudan. With ball-playing defenders such as Axel Tuanzebe and Chancel Mbemba, along with wing-backs like Arthur Masuaku and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, this system facilitates a more aggressive style of play.
The Coach
Affectionately referred to as “Tatu Seba” or “Papa Seba” by fans, Sébastien Desabre joined the DRC in 2022, bringing with him a wealth of experience from various African leagues in Uganda, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, and Cameroon. Having moved from Ligue 2, he embraced the challenge of guiding a footballing nation rich in talent yet plagued by structural complexities. “DR Congo is a true football country,” he expressed to Afrik-Foot after the team secured qualification. “The people are passionate about their national team and take immense pride in it.” Desabre prioritizes continuity and stability, and veteran striker Cédric Bakambu acknowledges that he has finally provided the Leopards with a much-needed “framework.” More significantly, he has fostered a cohesive squad united by a definitive collective identity, which had been absent for years.
Star Player
After missing the Africa Cup of Nations to regain his form following a knee injury, Yoane Wissa arrives at the World Cup with considerable expectations. Affectionately known as “Kovo” by Congolese fans, the Newcastle forward made history as the first player from the DRC to net over ten Premier League goals in a single season during his tenure at Brentford. Typically positioned on the left for the national squad, Wissa combines speed with astute movement and relentless pressing. Although his inaugural season at Newcastle was marred by injuries, he remains the most potent attacking threat for the Leopards and their foremost international star when fit.
One to Watch
Ngal’ayel Mukau’s elegance on the pitch is distinctly noteworthy. The 21-year-old Lille midfielder, tall and technically gifted, navigates matches with a composure that is rare for his age. He excels in recovering possession, evading pressure, advancing the ball, and accelerating attacks. Despite Belgium’s fervent attempts to retain him, Mukau committed early to the DRC, joining a cohort of promising Belgian-Congolese talents poised to redefine the national team’s future. With links to clubs such as Barcelona, Mukau could emerge from this tournament as one of Africa’s standout midfielders.
Unsung Hero
Though he may not score or provide assists, Samuel Moutoussamy’s role is vital to the team’s success. The midfielder acts as the driving force behind Desabre’s system, excelling in pressing, intercepting, covering spaces, and maintaining possession with exceptional discipline. While not flashy, Moutoussamy is incredibly reliable, setting the emotional tone of the team with his intensity and commitment. “We’ll leave our souls on the pitch,” he conveyed to Leopardsfoot before the playoff against Jamaica. “We can’t play with fear.” This mentality embodies the spirit of the Congolese squad: resilient, combative, and charged with emotion.
Probable Starting XI
What to Anticipate from Fans
Traveling to the US has always posed challenges for many Congolese supporters due to visa restrictions and financial hurdles, a situation exacerbated by the recent Ebola outbreak. Consequently, the team will heavily rely on its diaspora, especially in Texas and across North America. Fortunately for the Leopards, Congolese fans are renowned throughout Africa for their ability to create a lively atmosphere. Expect vibrant dancing, singing, colorful outfits, painted faces, and boundless energy. The football culture in Congo is deeply intertwined with music and celebration, and supporters are famous for their humor and entertainment. The iconic superfan “Lumumba Vea,” known for his unique tribute to the statue of independence leader Patrice Lumumba, had his visa application for Mexico denied in March but remains hopeful for a successful trip following government intervention.
US Relations and the Trump Administration
Currently, relations are viewed positively, primarily due to the Trump administration’s efforts, albeit with mixed results, to act as a mediator in the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. In exchange, the U.S. has demonstrated an increasing interest in accessing Congo’s vast mineral resources, a strategy referred to as “peace in exchange for extraction.” During the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington in February, Donald Trump praised President Félix Tshisekedi as “a courageous and wonderful man” while quickly emphasizing the economic prospects that Congo offers. Although the relationship remains pragmatic rather than sentimental, ordinary Congolese fans still face significant challenges in obtaining U.S. visas for the World Cup.
