The Democratic Republic of Congo's national team, the Leopards, announced their squad on March 11, 2026, under head coach Sébastien Desabre. This comes as they gear up for the intercontinental play-offs scheduled later in March 2026 in Guadalajara, Mexico, aiming for a spot at the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The omissions of Balikwisha (Celtic) and Stroeykens (Anderlecht) have drawn significant attention, as both featured in DR Congo's African play-off victory over Nigeria in November 2025.
Background on Nigeria's FIFA Complaint
Nigeria's Super Eagles lost to DR Congo 4-3 on penalties (after a 1-1 draw) in the African qualifying play-off in Morocco last November. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) filed a formal protest with FIFA in December 2025, alleging that DR Congo fielded several ineligible players due to issues with nationality switches and unrenounced Belgian citizenship.
The NFF petition specifically named multiple foreign-born players, including Michel-Ange Balikwisha, Mario Stroeykens, and Matheu Epolo, who received final FIFA clearance between November 11-12, 2025—just days before the November 16 match. Other high-profile names like Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, Arthur Masuaku, and Cédric Bakambu were also referenced in the complaint.
The NFF requested a formal investigation and potential disqualification of DR Congo from the qualification process.
Latest Squad Developments and Omissions
Head coach Sébastien Desabre retained much of the core group that advanced past Nigeria, including key figures such as captain Chancel Mbemba, Cédric Bakambu, Yoane Wissa, and Samuel Moutoussamy. Goalkeeper Matheu Epolo, one of the three most prominently disputed players, remains in the squad.
However, Balikwisha—who debuted against Nigeria and scored in the penalty shoot-out—and Stroeykens—who was injured and did not play—were left out. Some reports also note the absence of Gédéon Kalulu among other changes.
This selective omission has fueled speculation that DR Congo may be minimizing further scrutiny while FIFA's verdict on the eligibility case remains pending.
Impact and Implications for Both Nations
The squad announcement adds intrigue to the ongoing dispute. A favorable FIFA ruling for Nigeria could potentially reopen qualification pathways for the Super Eagles or alter DR Congo's status in the intercontinental play-offs.
For DR Congo, proceeding with a "cleaner" squad—by excluding two of the flagged players—may help avoid complications as they chase their second-ever World Cup appearance (following 1974). The team faces high stakes in Mexico, where progression would mark a major achievement.
Nigeria continues to await FIFA's decision, reportedly expected soon, with the case centering on procedural compliance and citizenship rules.
What’s Next for the Leopards and Super Eagles
DR Congo will focus on preparation for their play-off fixtures in Guadalajara. The outcome of FIFA's review could influence squad stability or even the legitimacy of their qualification campaign.
Nigeria's hopes hinge on the governing body's ruling. A positive verdict might provide a lifeline in the extended 2026 World Cup qualification format.
The situation underscores ongoing challenges in African football regarding player eligibility and dual nationality switches.
In summary, DR Congo's decision to drop Balikwisha and Stroeykens from their World Cup play-off squad signals a strategic move amid Nigeria's unresolved FIFA complaint. With FIFA's verdict looming, this development keeps the qualification drama alive for both nations.