DR Congo Announces World Cup Squad Featuring Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Yoane Wissa
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has revealed its squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, sparking excitement among fans and football enthusiasts. Notably, West Ham defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Newcastle United striker Yoane Wissa are included in the team, bringing experience and skill to the Leopards’ lineup.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s International Journey
Croydon-born Aaron Wan-Bissaka, 28, has had an interesting international career. Capped by England at the Under-21 level and called into the senior England squad in 2019, Wan-Bissaka did not make a senior appearance. In August 2025, he switched his international allegiance to DR Congo and has since earned nine caps for the Leopards.
Wan-Bissaka’s inclusion bolsters the DR Congo defense with his Premier League experience, particularly as a former Manchester United full-back now playing for West Ham United. His defensive prowess and agility will be crucial in helping DR Congo compete on the world stage.
Yoane Wissa Returns to the Fold
Yoane Wissa, who transferred to Newcastle United from Brentford last summer, has had a mixed season struggling with form and injuries. Despite this, he’s been named in the World Cup squad after missing out on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Wissa’s selection highlights the confidence coach Sébastien Desabre places in him to contribute upfront. His pace, strength, and ability to score will be vital as DR Congo faces tough competition in the tournament.
Other Key Squad Members
The DR Congo squad includes a mix of seasoned internationals and promising talents from various leagues:
Defenders
- Axel Tuanzebe (Burnley)
- Rocky Bushiri (Hibernian), though currently a concern due to a suspected Achilles injury during their recent defeat to Motherwell
- Arthur Masuaku (Racing Lens)
- Chancel Mbemba (Lille)
Midfielders
- Edo Kayembe (Watford)
- Noah Sadiki (Sunderland)
- Theo Bongonda (Spartak Moscow)
- Brian Cipenga (Castellon)
- Gael Kakuta (Larisa), an experienced 34-year-old recalled after limited playtime in the past two years
Forwards
- Cedric Bakambu (Real Betis)
- Simon Banza (Al Jazira)
- Fiston Mayele (Pyramids)
Historical Context and Group Stage Challenge
DR Congo, formerly known as Zaire, last featured in the World Cup in 1974 in West Germany. The team lost all three group matches, including a record 9-0 defeat to Yugoslavia. One of the memorable moments from that tournament was defender Mwepu Ilunga’s unexpected action of running out of the defensive wall to kick the ball away as Brazil prepared to take a free-kick — a moment still talked about in football folklore.
This year, DR Congo competes in Group K alongside strong teams Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan. The group stage promises to be challenging, but with players like Wan-Bissaka and Wissa involved, the Leopards are hopeful of making a strong impression.
Complete DR Congo World Cup Squad
Goalkeepers
- Matthieu Epolo (Standard Liege)
- Timothy Fayulu (Noah)
- Lionel Mpasi (Le Havre)
Defenders
- Dylan Batubinsika (Larisa)
- Rocky Bushiri (Hibernian)
- Gedoon Kalulu (Aris Limassol)
- Steve Kapuadi (Widzew Lodz)
- Joris Kayembe (Racing Genk)
- Arthur Masuaku (Racing Lens)
- Chancel Mbemba (Lille)
- Axel Tuanzebe (Burnley)
- Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham United)
Midfielders
- Theo Bongonda (Spartak Moscow)
- Brian Cipenga (Castellon)
- Meshack Elia (Alanyaspor)
- Gael Kakuta (Larisa)
- Edo Kayembe (Watford)
- Nathanael Mbuku (Montpellier)
- Samuel Moutoussamy (Atromitos)
- Ngal’ayel Mukau (Lille)
- Charles Pickel (Espanyol)
- Noah Sadiki (Sunderland)
Forwards
- Cedric Bakambu (Real Betis)
- Simon Banza (Al Jazira)
- Fiston Mayele (Pyramids)
- Yoane Wissa (Newcastle United)
Looking Forward
The inclusion of Premier League talents like Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Yoane Wissa infuses the DR Congo squad with quality experience, enhancing their chances of a competitive World Cup campaign. With a blend of seasoned pros and rising stars, DR Congo aims to build on their footballing heritage and make a significant impact on football’s grandest stage.
Fans across the world will be keenly watching how the Leopards perform as they embark on this exciting journey at the finals.
