This piece is part of the extensive coverage from the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, featuring insights from top media outlets across the 48 nations that qualified. Previews are being shared daily leading up to the tournament, which kicks off on June 11.
The Strategy Ahead
The evolution of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) national team under the guidance of Sébastien Desabre can be encapsulated by a striking remark he made during an interview with Leopardsfoot: “Discipline must begin on the pitch.” The French coach has instilled a sense of order in a team historically marked by unpredictability and disarray. Rather than merely a coach, Desabre resembles a manager in the English football context, meticulously focusing on aspects from defensive organization to the federation’s communication strategy. Thus far, his methods have proven effective.
Initially adopting a 4-2-3-1 formation upon his appointment in 2022, Desabre has progressively refined his tactical style. The DRC now typically employs a compact 4-1-4-1 formation, featuring a deep-seated holding midfielder, two dynamic No 8s who are encouraged to press and advance the ball, and a diligent striker, usually Cédric Bakambu, who consistently challenges defenses with his movement.
The Leopards are also adept at transitioning to a three-man defense, which was effectively utilized during the qualifying matches against Togo and South Sudan. With defenders capable of playing the ball like Axel Tuanzebe and Chancel Mbemba, along with wing-backs such as Arthur Masuaku and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, this formation allows for a more aggressive style of play.
Despite the improvements, Desabre continues to face criticism regarding the team’s attacking prowess, as the DRC seldom dominates matches or creates ample opportunities during open play. However, defensively, they have become a formidable wall. At the time of writing, the full squad has not experienced a defeat by more than one goal under Desabre’s leadership. This resilience was a hallmark of their qualification campaign: a late elimination by Cameroon, a penalty shootout victory over Nigeria, and a dramatic extra-time win against Jamaica. Convincing? Not always. Mentally tough? Definitely.
The Head Coach
Affectionately referred to as “Tatu Seba” by local fans, Sébastien Desabre joined the DRC in 2022, bringing a wealth of experience from various African nations, including Uganda, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, and Cameroon. Transitioning from Ligue 2, he took on the challenge of coaching one of Africa’s most talented yet complex football nations. “DR Congo is a true football country,” he remarked to Afrik-Foot following their qualification. “People are passionate about their national team and take pride in it.” A pragmatic individual, Desabre prioritizes continuity and stability, with veteran striker Cédric Bakambu acknowledging that he has finally provided the Leopards with a structured framework. More significantly, he has cultivated a unified squad with a distinct collective identity, a vital aspect that had eluded the DRC for years.
Key Player
Following a knee injury that sidelined him from the Africa Cup of Nations, Yoane Wissa enters the World Cup with significant expectations. Known as “Kovo” (“the bald one”) among 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. Usually positioned on the left flank for the national side, Wissa combines speed with intelligent movement and relentless pressing. His inaugural season at Newcastle was marred by injuries, but when fit, he stands out as the Leopards’ most potent attacking threat and their leading international figure.
Player to Watch
Ngal’ayel Mukau brings an unusual grace to the game. Tall, technically adept, and possessing a strong left foot, the Lille midfielder navigates matches with a rare composure for someone of his age, just 21. He excels at regaining possession, evading pressure, advancing with the ball, and accelerating attacks. Although Belgium made considerable efforts to retain him, Mukau chose to commit to the DRC early on, joining a wave of talented Belgian-Congolese youngsters poised to redefine the national team’s future. With links to clubs like Barcelona, Mukau has the potential to emerge as one of Africa’s standout midfielders during this tournament.
Hidden Gem
While he may not be the one to score or assist, Samuel Moutoussamy holds immense importance for the squad. As the driving force behind Sébastien Desabre’s tactical setup, the midfielder excels in pressing, intercepting, covering spaces, and recycling possession with remarkable discipline. Although not flashy, Moutoussamy is incredibly reliable, setting the team’s emotional tone with his intensity and dedication. “We’ll leave our souls on the pitch,” he stated to Leopardsfoot before the playoff against Jamaica. “We can’t play with fear.” This mentality encapsulates the spirit of the Congolese side: resilient, combative, and emotionally charged.
Predicted Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
Even prior to the recent Ebola outbreak, accessing the US proved to be a challenging endeavor for many Congolese supporters due to visa restrictions and financial hurdles. Consequently, the team will heavily rely on its diaspora, particularly in Texas, throughout North America. Fortunately for the Leopards, Congolese fans are renowned across Africa for their ability to create a vibrant atmosphere wherever they go. Expect lively dancing, enthusiastic singing, colorful outfits, painted faces, and boundless energy. In Congo, football culture is deeply intertwined with music and celebration, and supporters are famous for their humor and entertainment. The notable superfan “Lumumba Vea,” recognized for standing still with one arm raised for 90 minutes in homage to the statue of independence leader Patrice Lumumba, faced visa rejection for Mexico in March but remains hopeful for government intervention to attend.
US Relations and the Trump Administration
Currently, relations are favorable, primarily due to the Trump administration’s attempts, albeit with limited success, to act as a mediator in the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. In exchange, the US has shown a growing interest in accessing Congo’s abundant mineral resources, a strategy often characterized 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 highlighting the economic prospects Congo offers. The relationship remains one of pragmatism rather than emotional ties. However, ordinary Congolese fans still encounter significant challenges in obtaining US visas for the World Cup.
