Desabre names star‑studded D.R Congo squad for 2027 AFCON qualifiers

Sebastien Desabre has unveiled a high‑profile D.R Congo squad for the start of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, calling up Premier League duo Aaron Wan‑Bissaka and Yoane Wissa alongside several emerging Europe‑based players. The Leopards open Group E at home to Equatorial Guinea on September 24 before travelling to Zimbabwe four days later.

Following their historic 2026 World Cup run, Desabre has added fresh talent including Willy Kambwala, Ezechiel Banzuzi, Stanis Idumbo, Jordy Makengo, Noah Mbamba and Kevin Pedro. D.R Congo’s World Cup breakthrough featured their first‑ever goal, scored by Wissa against Portugal, and their maiden win, a 3‑1 victory over Uzbekistan that propelled them into the Round of 32.

The Leopards remain one of AFCON’s traditional powers, with two titles but limited recent success. Beyond the qualifiers, they will face Uganda in two friendlies.