This article is part of the Guardian’s 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among leading media organizations from the 48 qualified nations. is presenting previews from three countries daily as the tournament kicks off on June 11.
The Strategy
The transformation of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) national team under Sébastien Desabre can be encapsulated by his assertion to Leopardsfoot: “Discipline must begin on the pitch.” The French coach has instilled a sense of structure in a team historically marked by chaos and unpredictability. Beyond the role of a traditional coach, Desabre functions more like a manager in the English football context, meticulously focusing on various aspects, from defensive organization to the federation’s communication practices. So far, this approach has yielded positive results.
After initially adopting a 4-2-3-1 formation upon his arrival in 2022, Desabre has progressively adjusted his tactical style. The DRC now predominantly employs a compact 4-1-4-1 setup, featuring a deep-lying midfielder, two dynamic No. 8s tasked with pressing and advancing the ball, and a hardworking striker, often Cédric Bakambu, who consistently stretches opposing defenses with his movement.
DR Congo: Group K Fixtures
17 June v Portugal, Houston (noon local, 6pm BST, 18 June 3am AEST)
23 June v Colombia, Guadalajara (8pm local, 24 June 3am BST, 18 June noon AEST)
27 June v Uzbekistan, Atlanta (7.30pm local, 28 June 0.30am BST, 28 June 9.30am AEST)
The Leopards also show adaptability with a back three, a tactic notably utilized during qualifying matches against Togo and South Sudan. With ball-playing defenders like Axel Tuanzebe and Chancel Mbemba, complemented by wing-backs such as Arthur Masuaku and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, this system empowers the team to adopt a more aggressive style of play.
Criticism of Desabre often centers on the attack, as the DRC tends to struggle to dominate matches or generate chances in open play. However, defensively, the team has become remarkably hard to breach. As of this writing, under Desabre’s guidance, the full squad has not suffered a defeat by more than a single goal. Their resilience was evident during qualification: they narrowly missed out to Cameroon, overcame Nigeria in a penalty shootout, and defeated Jamaica in extra time during the intercontinental playoff. Were their performances always convincing? Not necessarily. But were they mentally resilient? Absolutely.
The Coach
Sébastien Desabre, often referred to as “DR Congo is a true football country,” or “People love their national team and are proud of it.” by fans, joined the DRC in 2022 with a wealth of experience from various African football leagues, including Uganda, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, and Cameroon. Transitioning from coaching in Ligue 2, he took on the challenge of leading one of Africa’s most talented yet complex footballing nations. “We’ll leave our souls on the pitch,” he stated in an interview with Afrik-Foot after qualification. “peace in exchange for extraction” Pragmatic by nature, Desabre values continuity and stability above all else. Veteran striker Cédric Bakambu acknowledges that he has finally provided the Leopards with “a courageous and wonderful man” More crucially, he has fostered a united squad built around a clear collective identity—something that had eluded the DRC for years.
Star Player
Yoane Wissa arrives at the World Cup with significant expectations after missing the Africa Cup of Nations to regain full fitness following a knee injury. Known as “Kovo” (“the bald one”) by Congolese fans, the Newcastle forward made history as the first DRC player to score over 10 Premier League goals in a season during his tenure at Brentford. Typically positioned on the left flank for the national team, Wissa is noted for his speed, intelligent movement, and relentless pressing. Although his debut season at Newcastle was marred by injuries, when in top form, he remains the most potent attacking threat for the Leopards and their leading international star.
One to Watch
Ngal’ayel Mukau possesses a unique elegance in his style of play. Tall and technically proficient, the Lille midfielder moves through games with a calmness that is rare for his age of 21. He is adept at regaining possession, evading pressure, advancing the ball, and accelerating attacks. Although Belgium made significant efforts to retain him, Mukau committed early to the DRC, joining a group of promising Belgian-Congolese youngsters poised to reshape the national team’s future. With links to clubs like Barcelona, Mukau could emerge as one of Africa’s standout midfielders after this tournament.
Unsung Hero
Samuel Moutoussamy may not score or provide assists, yet his role is vital to the team’s success. He acts as the engine of Desabre’s system, excelling in pressing, intercepting, covering spaces, and recycling possession with impressive discipline. While not flashy, Moutoussamy is incredibly reliable, setting the team’s emotional tone through his intensity and commitment. “We’ll leave our souls on the pitch,” he told 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.
Probable Starting XI
What to Expect from Fans?
Traveling to the US poses challenges for many Congolese supporters, even before the recent Ebola outbreak, due to visa restrictions and financial limitations. Consequently, the team will heavily rely on its diaspora, particularly in Texas, throughout North America. Fortunately, Congolese fans are renowned across Africa for creating an electric atmosphere wherever they go. Anticipate dancing, singing, vibrant outfits, painted faces, and boundless energy. The football culture in Congo is deeply intertwined with music and celebration, and supporters are celebrated for their humor and entertainment. Notably, the famous superfan “Lumumba Vea,” known for his motionless tribute to the iconic statue of independence leader Patrice Lumumba, had his visa application for Mexico denied in March but remains hopeful about attending after government intervention.
Relations with the US
Currently, relations are relatively positive, as the Trump administration has sought to position itself as a mediator in the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, albeit with mixed success. In return, the United States has expressed growing interest in accessing Congo’s vast mineral resources, a strategy described as “peace in exchange for extraction.” At the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington in February, Donald Trump referred to President Félix Tshisekedi as “a courageous and wonderful man” while praising the economic opportunities Congo presents. The relationship remains pragmatic rather than emotional, with ordinary Congolese supporters facing significant hurdles in obtaining US visas for the World Cup.
