The Democratic Republic of Congo have received a major boost ahead of their decisive FIFA World Cup playoff after striker Yoane Wissa was recalled to the national team squad following his recovery from injury.
Head coach Sebastien Desabre included the forward in a 26-man squad as the Leopards prepare for the inter-confederation playoff that could secure them a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Wissa had missed the recent Africa Cup of Nations finals after suffering a knee injury during a World Cup qualifier against Senegal national football team in early September.
The injury kept the striker sidelined for several months before he eventually returned to competitive action in December.
The Congolese forward, who currently plays in the English Premier League with Newcastle United, is expected to strengthen DR Congo’s attacking options as they attempt to secure qualification for the global tournament.
DR Congo were eliminated in the round of 16 at the continental championship held in Morocco earlier this year, but they now have another opportunity to book their place at the World Cup scheduled to take place across United States, Mexico and Canada starting in June.
The Leopards will compete in the inter-confederation playoff scheduled for March 31 in Guadalajara, where they will face the winner of the clash between Jamaica national football team and New Caledonia national football team, who meet five days earlier.
Victory in that decisive encounter would see DR Congo qualify for the World Cup and join Group K alongside Colombia national football team, Portugal national football team and Uzbekistan national football team.
Aside from Wissa’s return, Desabre also welcomed back several players who missed the Cup of Nations. Defender Dylan Batubinsika of AEL Limassol and Watford right-back Jeremy Ngakia were recalled to reinforce the defence.
Former England Under-21 midfielder Grady Diangana, who now plays for Elche CF, also returns to the squad after missing the continental tournament.
With qualification for the expanded 2026 World Cup within reach, DR Congo will be hoping the blend of returning stars and experienced internationals can deliver victory in Mexico and potentially make them the 10th African nation to feature at the global showpiece.
The post Wissa Returns as DR Congo Name Squad for Crucial World Cup Playoff first appeared on Africa Top Sports.
