By Angu Lesley Ngwa Akonwi
Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon
Sébastien Desabre has unveiled a bold, forward-thinking DR Congo squad for their much-anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoff clash against Cameroon on 13 November at Rabat’s El Barid Stadium — and it’s a list that signals both courage and transition.
The Frenchman’s selection leans heavily toward youth, freshness, and competitive rhythm — a move that could define his tenure with the Leopards. Among the headline decisions is the inclusion of 21-year-old Standard Liège goalkeeper Mathieu Epolo, who replaces clubless Dimitri Bertaud. The young shot-stopper, a product of Belgian football’s youth system, becomes the latest European-born player to pledge allegiance to the Congolese cause.
New Faces, New Energy
The Leopards’ faithful will be especially intrigued by the call-ups of Mario Stroeykens (20, Anderlecht) and Michel-Ange Balikwisha (Celtic), both previously involved with Belgium’s youth sides. Stroeykens, described by Belgian observers as a technically sharp midfielder with creative flair, is the surprise of the selection — a bold pick from Desabre that underlines his commitment to broadening the talent pool.
Balikwisha’s arrival follows months of speculation surrounding his switch of allegiance. His inclusion adds further attacking verve to a midfield that already features established names like Samuel Moutoussamy, Charles Pickel, and Edo Kayembe.
Absences and Tactical Clues
Injuries and form issues have shaped this squad as much as ambition. Yoane Wissa’s absence through injury is a major blow — the Newcastle forward has been a central piece of Desabre’s attacking puzzle. Meanwhile, Simon Banza and Dylan Batubinsika both miss out, victims of limited game time at club level.
Desabre’s defensive setup remains anchored by experience, with Chancel Mbemba (Lille) and Axel Tuanzebe (Burnley) expected to marshal the backline. Aaron Wan-Bissaka, fresh off a strong run of form at West Ham, offers stability on the right, while Arthur Masuaku brings balance and leadership from the left.
The Next Generation Steps Forward
The squad reflects a gradual generational shift, balancing seasoned campaigners with exciting prospects such as Nassim Sadiki (Sunderland) and Mukau Mukoko (Lille). Their inclusion signals a deliberate move towards building depth for the long term, as the Leopards eye consistent continental competitiveness beyond these playoffs.
Upfront, Béni Cipenga, who impressed on debut against Sudan, retains his place and could be the wild card in Desabre’s attacking plan. With Cedric Bakambu and Fabrice Mayele completing the forward line, DR Congo will look to combine power, mobility, and efficiency in front of goal.
Eyes on Rabat and Beyond
The task is formidable. Facing Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions, themselves hungry for redemption, will test every facet of Desabre’s project. Yet the Frenchman’s gamble on youth may be precisely what DR Congo need — fresh minds, fearless energy, and a hunger to make history.
A win in Rabat would set up a decisive final against either Nigeria or Gabon — and bring the Leopards closer to a coveted intercontinental playoff berth in March 2026, keeping their World Cup dream very much alive.
DR Congo Squad to Face Cameroon
Goalkeepers: Timothy Fayulu (FC Noah, Armenia), Lionel Mpasi (Le Havre, France), Mathieu Epolo (Standard Liège, Belgium).
Defenders: Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham United, England), Gédéon Kalulu (Aris Limassol, Cyprus), Arthur Masuaku (Sunderland, England), Joris Kayembe (Genk, Belgium), Steven Kapuadi (Legia Warszawa, Poland), Rocky Bushiri (Hibernian, Scotland), Axel Tuanzebe (Burnley, England), Chancel Mbemba (Lille, France).
Midfielders: Nassim Sadiki (Sunderland, England), Edo Kayembe (Watford, England), Samuel Moutoussamy (Atromitos, Greece), Charles Pickel (Espanyol, Spain), Mukau Mukoko (Lille, France), Mario Stroeykens (Anderlecht, Belgium), Theo Bongonda (Spartak Moscow, Russia), Michel-Ange Balikwisha (Celtic, Scotland), Nathanaël Mbuku (Montpellier, France).
Attackers: Béni Cipenga (Castellón, Spain), Meschack Elia (Alanyaspor, Turkey), Fiston Mayele (Pyramids FC, Egypt), Simon Essende (Augsburg, Germany), Cedric Bakambu (Real Betis, Spain).
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