The Digest:
DR Congo head coach Sebastien Desabre has named his squad for the 2026 World Cup intercontinental playoffs, with FIFA yet to rule on Nigeria's eligibility complaint against the Leopards. The squad includes Newcastle's Yoane Wissa returning after missing AFCON 2025, along with Dylan Batubinsika, Jeremy Ngakia, and Grady Diangana. DR Congo qualified by defeating Nigeria on penalties in the African playoffs final last November. However, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) submitted a complaint alleging DR Congo fielded ineligible players and demanded their removal from the playoffs. FIFA last week confirmed DR Congo's playoff schedule while maintaining silence on Nigeria's appeal. The Leopards will compete in the March 26-31 playoffs in Mexico for a spot at the 48-team World Cup.
Key Points
- DR Congo names squad for World Cup playoffs; Wissa returns.
- FIFA confirms playoff schedule but silent on Nigeria's eligibility complaint.
- NFF alleges DR Congo fielded ineligible players in November playoff.
- Disputed players Wan-Bissaka, Tuanzebe, Masuaku included in squad.
- Playoffs run March 26-31 in Mexico.
Sources: Team Announcement
