After a 52-year absence, the Democratic Republic of Congo return to football’s greatest stage for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Spearheaded by French tactician Sébastien Desabre and anchored by veteran captain Chancel Mbemba, the Leopards have undergone a dramatic resurgence and now target Group K fixtures for a historic first-ever World Cup victory.
The Democratic Republic of Congo defender and captain Chancel Mbemba (left) fights for the ball with Zambia's forward Patson Daka in an AFCON match. Mbemba is looking to lead the DRC to record their first win at the World Cup.
Captain: Chancel Mbemba
Key Player: Cédric Bakambu
All-time scorer: Dieumerci Mbokani (22 goals)
Best Ranking: 39th in 2017 as DR Congo (28th in 1974 as Zaire)
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This is just the second time that DR Congo have reached the World Cup finals, sparking celebrations in Kinshasa.
