This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among top media outlets from the 48 qualifying nations. As the tournament approaches, previews from three countries are being released daily, leading up to the kickoff on June 11.
The Strategy
The evolution of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) national team under head coach Sébastien Desabre can best be encapsulated by his assertion to Leopardsfoot: “Discipline must begin on the pitch.” The French coach has instilled a sense of order within a squad historically marked by unpredictability and disorder. More than merely a coach, Desabre functions as a manager in the traditional English sense, meticulously focusing on aspects ranging from defensive alignment to the federation’s communications approach. His efforts have yielded positive results thus far.
Having initially implemented a 4-2-3-1 formation upon his appointment in 2022, Desabre has gradually shifted his tactical framework. The DRC now predominantly adopts a compact 4-1-4-1 setup featuring a deep-lying midfielder, two industrious No. 8s tasked with pressing and advancing the ball, and a diligent striker—often Cédric Bakambu—who stretches defenses with his dynamic movement.
The Leopards are also adept at transitioning to a three-man backline, a tactic notably employed during their qualifying matches against Togo and South Sudan. With ball-playing defenders like Axel Tuanzebe and Chancel Mbemba, along with wing-backs such as Arthur Masuaku and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, this system empowers the team to adopt a more aggressive playing style.
Despite the progress, Desabre faces criticism regarding the attack, as the DRC often struggles to dominate matches or generate scoring opportunities during open play. However, defensively, they have become a formidable unit. Under Desabre’s guidance, the team has yet to lose by more than a single goal. This resilience was crucial during qualification: they narrowly edged out Cameroon, triumphed over Nigeria in a penalty shootout, and defeated Jamaica in extra time during the intercontinental playoff. Convincing? Not always. Mentally strong? Absolutely.
The Coach
Commonly referred to as “Tatu Seba” or “Papa Seba” by Congolese fans, Sébastien Desabre joined the DRC in 2022, bringing a wealth of experience from various African football leagues in Uganda, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, and Cameroon. The former Chamois Niortais coach transitioned from Ligue 2 to manage one of Africa’s most talented yet structurally complex football nations. “DR Congo is a true football country,” he remarked to Afrik-Foot after their qualification. “People cherish their national team and take immense pride in it.” Pragmatic by nature, Desabre prioritizes continuity and stability above all else. Veteran striker Cédric Bakambu attributes the team’s newfound structure to Desabre, who has successfully fostered a united squad with a clear collective identity—something that had been sorely lacking.
Key Player
Returning from a knee injury that sidelined him during the Africa Cup of Nations, Yoane Wissa steps onto the World Cup stage bearing significant expectations. Affectionately nicknamed “Kovo” (“the bald one”) by his supporters, the Newcastle forward made history as the first player from the DRC to net over 10 Premier League goals in a single season while at Brentford. Typically deployed on the left for his national team, Wissa combines speed with astute positioning and relentless pressing. Although injuries marred his debut season at Newcastle, when in peak condition, he remains the Leopards’ most potent offensive threat and their foremost international star.
Rising Star
Ngal’ayel Mukau possesses a uniquely graceful style of play that sets him apart. The tall, technically gifted Lille midfielder navigates matches with a composure that belies his 21 years. He excels at regaining possession, evading pressure, advancing the ball, and accelerating attacks. While Belgium made extensive efforts to secure his commitment, Mukau opted for the DRC, joining a wave of promising Belgian-Congolese talent reshaping the national team’s future. Already linked to prestigious clubs like Barcelona, Mukau has the potential to emerge as one of Africa’s standout midfielders during this tournament.
The Unsung Hero
While Samuel Moutoussamy may not score or provide assists, his contributions are invaluable to the squad. As the engine of Desabre’s tactical setup, the midfielder excels at pressing, intercepting, covering space, and recycling possession with incredible discipline. Though not flashy, Moutoussamy is a reliable presence who sets the emotional tone of the team through his intensity and commitment. “We’ll leave our souls on the pitch,” he expressed to Leopardsfoot prior to the playoff against Jamaica. “We can’t play with fear.” This mentality embodies the spirit of the Congolese side: resilient, combative, and emotionally driven.
Predicted Starting XI
Fan Expectations
Even prior to the recent Ebola outbreak, traveling to the United States posed significant challenges for many Congolese supporters due to visa restrictions and financial hurdles. Consequently, the team will heavily rely on its diaspora, particularly in Texas and across North America. Fortunately for the Leopards, Congolese fans are renowned throughout Africa for their infectious enthusiasm. Expect vibrant dancing, singing, colorful attire, painted faces, and boundless energy. Football culture in Congo is deeply intertwined with music and celebration, and supporters are celebrated for their humor and entertainment. The well-known superfan “Lumumba Vea,” recognized for standing motionless with one arm raised for 90 minutes in homage to the iconic statue of independence leader Patrice Lumumba, faced visa challenges in March but remains hopeful for government intervention to secure his travel to Mexico.
Current Relations with the US
The relationship is presently positive, largely due to the Trump administration’s attempts—albeit with mixed results—to act as a mediator in the ongoing conflicts in eastern Congo. In exchange, the United States has shown increasing interest in accessing Congo’s vast mineral resources, a strategy described 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,” swiftly highlighting the economic opportunities Congo presents. However, this relationship is more pragmatic than emotional, as ordinary Congolese fans still confront significant difficulties in obtaining US visas for the World Cup.
