DR Congo Confirms World Cup Playoff Squad Amid NFF Eligibility Appeal

The Democratic Republic of Congo has unveiled a 26-man squad for the FIFA World Cup intercontinental playoff, despite the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) raising concerns over player eligibility.

Head coach Sébastien Desabre announced the team on Wednesday as the Leopards prepare for the decisive match in Mexico, which could secure their spot at the global tournament.

Among the squad, Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Mario Stroeykens—players cited in Nigeria’s FIFA complaint—were left out, while Matheu Epolo, the third player mentioned, remains included.

The NFF lodged the complaint after losing 4–3 on penalties to Congo DR in the African play-off tie, accusing the Congolese federation of improperly switching the nationality of several overseas-born players to secure eligibility.

“These players had already been called up by DRC on November 1, 2025… approximately eleven days before receiving FIFA clearance,” Nigeria stated in its petition.

FIFA has yet to issue a decision on the matter, but the inclusion of Congo DR on the official playoff list indicates the team is moving forward with preparations.

Squad highlights:

Goalkeepers: Théo Fayulu, Lionel Mpasi, Matthieu Epolo
Defenders: Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Jeremy Ngakia, Joris Kayembe, Arthur Masuaku, Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe, Rocky Bushiri, Steven Kapuadi, Batubinsika
Midfielders: Noah Sadiki, Edo Kayembe, Samuel Moutoussamy, Charles Pickel, Ngal’ayel Mukau, Meshack Elia, Théo Bongonda, Nathanaël Mbuku, Bryan Ssebinya, Grady Diangana
Forwards: Simon Banza, Fiston Mayele, Cédric Bakambu, Yoane Wissa

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