DR Congo Drop NFF-Disputed Players for World Cup Play-offs

The Democratic Republic of Congo have left out two players cited in the Nigeria Football Federation’s complaint to FIFA as they announced a 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup intercontinental play-offs.

The development has added fresh twists to an eligibility dispute between both football bodies, with FIFA yet to deliver a final verdict.

Head coach Sébastien Desabre unveiled the squad on Wednesday, maintaining the core of players who eliminated Nigeria on penalties during the African play-off round. He also handed recalls to several players who missed the recent Africa Cup of Nations campaign in Morocco.

Team captain Chancel Mbemba headlines the squad alongside experienced stars such as Cédric Bakambu, Yoane Wissa, and Samuel Moutoussamy, as the Leopards aim to secure a return to the FIFA World Cup.

However, the omission of Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Mario Stroeykens has drawn attention. Both players were specifically mentioned in the NFF’s formal petition to FIFA over alleged eligibility irregularities.

Only Matheu Epolo, the third player highlighted in Nigeria’s complaint, was named in the final list released by Desabre.

The NFF filed its petition after Nigeria’s 4–3 penalty shoot-out defeat to DR Congo in the African play-off tie, alleging that the Congolese federation may have provided misleading information during nationality switch processes for some overseas-born players.

The complaint, which became public in December 2025, urged FIFA to investigate the matter and consider possible sanctions, including disqualification from the qualification series if any wrongdoing is established.

With the play-offs fast approaching, attention now shifts to FIFA’s expected ruling, which could significantly impact the final composition of teams competing for a place at the 2026 World Cup.