DR Congo — FIFA World Cup 2026
Will DR Congo Qualify from Group K?
Powered by CalibrSports ML · Pre-tournament analysis
Key Players for DR Congo at World Cup 2026
Olympique de Marseille
Elite centre-back with Ligue 1 pedigree; the defensive leader and most experienced European-based player
Olympique de Marseille
Experienced, mobile striker who can lead the line and contribute goals at international level
Besiktas
Attacking left-back with exceptional crossing and forward-running ability who adds width and creativity
DR Congo World Cup 2026 Squad
59-player squad · provisional, via SportMonks · finalized closer to kickoff
Goalkeepers(6)
–Dimitry Bertaud
–Lionel Mpasi-Nzau
–Matthieu Epolo
–Timothy FayuluDefenders(18)
–Aaron Wan-Bissaka
–Arthur Masuaku
–Axel Tuanzebe
–Brian Bayeye
–Chancel MbembaC
–Dylan Batubinsika
–Gédéon Kalulu
–Henoc Inonga
–Jeremy Ngakia
–Joris Kayembe
–Rocky Bushiri
–Steve KapuadiMidfielders(15)
–Aaron Tshibola
–Charles Pickel
–Edo Kayembe
–Gaël Kakuta
–Mario Stroeykens
–Meschack Elia
–Miché Mika
–Ngal'ayel Mukau
–Noah Sadiki
–Samuel MoutoussamyAttackers(20)
–Brian Cipenga
–Cédric Bakambu
–Fiston Mayele
–Grady Diangana
–Jackson Muleka
–Jephte Kitambala
–Malanga Horso Mwaku
–Michel-Ange Balikwisha
–Nathanaël Mbuku
–Samuel Essende
–Silas
–Simon Banza
–Théo Bongonda
–Yoane WissaDR Congo Manager & Playing Style
Manager
Sébastien Desabre
Formation
4-3-3
Athletic and powerful with a physically dominant midfield and Cédric Bakambu providing the movement and goalscoring threat up front, deploying an aggressive press in their best moments.
DR Congo World Cup History
DR Congo's Group K Opponents
WC 2026 Betting Angles for DR Congo
DR Congo's most winnable game is against fellow first-timers Uzbekistan; Bakambu and the attacking press should create clear chances and them to score is a reasonable play.
Colombia will attack and DR Congo have enough offensive quality to threaten on the break; BTTS in this mid-table clash of Group K is live at enhanced odds.
Returning to the WC for the first time since 1974 (as Zaire) is historic but Group K with Portugal, Colombia, and competitive Uzbekistan makes advancing a very long shot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will DR Congo qualify from the group stage?
CalibrSports ML gives DR Congo a 42% probability of advancing from Group K, based on squad strength and opponent ratings.
What are DR Congo's chances of winning WC 2026?
Our model gives DR Congo a 0% chance of winning the World Cup 2026.
Who is DR Congo's best player at WC 2026?
Chancel Mbemba (CB at Olympique de Marseille) — Elite centre-back with Ligue 1 pedigree; the defensive leader and most experienced European-based player
CalibrSports Verdict on DR Congo
DR Congo return to the World Cup for the first time since 1974 when they competed as Zaire — a remarkable moment for Central African football. Desabre has organised a physically imposing side with genuine European quality in Mbemba and Bakambu. Group K is tough but they can compete with Uzbekistan for the third-place slot. CalibrSports gives DR Congo a 42% chance of advancing.