The Democratic Republic of Congo has stunned observers by naming two Premier League defenders—West Ham United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Newcastle United’s Yoane Wissa—in its 23-man squad for the opening 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers starting in November. The move signals a strategic gamble by head coach Sébastien Desabre, who has prioritised defensive solidity and Premier League pedigree over traditional AFCON-focused selections.

Wan-Bissaka, 26, returns to international duty after a three-year absence, following a resurgence in form under West Ham manager David Moyes. His inclusion addresses a long-standing defensive fragility for the Leopards, while Wissa, 30, provides an attacking outlet with a pedigree of 12 goals in his last 25 Premier League appearances. Neither player has featured for DR Congo in competitive matches since 2021.

Desabre’s squad announcement follows a rigorous selection process that excluded several high-profile names. Midfielder Christian M’Pumbu, widely tipped for inclusion, was surprisingly omitted, while goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi retained his place after a strong season with Belgian side RFC Seraing. The Leopards, ranked 67th globally, face Group D rivals Somalia, Ethiopia, and Eswatini, where even a single point could prove decisive in the early stages.

The Leopards’ preparation has been hampered by logistical challenges, including delayed visa approvals for European-based players and a compressed training schedule ahead of the November fixtures. Desabre has held closed-door sessions in Brussels to finalise tactics, with a focus on high pressing and quick transitions to exploit gaps in weaker opponents.

Wissa’s inclusion is particularly notable given his recent resurgence at Newcastle, where he has become a trusted option under Eddie Howe. His pace and link-up play could add a new dimension to DR Congo’s attack, which has struggled for creativity in recent AFCON campaigns. Meanwhile, Wan-Bissaka’s return marks a significant moment for a player who once looked destined for the fringes of England’s team before rediscovering his confidence in east London.

The squad announcement comes just days after FIFA confirmed the 2026 World Cup will expand to 48 teams, increasing Africa’s allocation to nine spots. For DR Congo, this means every qualifier is now a high-stakes opportunity to secure a historic first appearance since 1974. Desabre has publicly set a target of reaching the group stage, a feat no Congolese side has achieved in modern history.

The Leopards’ first qualifier kicks off on November 15 against Eswatini, a match Desabre has described as “the first step toward rewriting our footballing history.” With Wan-Bissaka marshalling the defense and Wissa leading the line, the stage is set for a dramatic return to the global stage.