Desabres Brave Blend Of Youth And Experience As Dr Congo Target Cameroon Scalp

The Frenchmans selection leans heavily toward youth, freshness, and competitive rhythm a move that could define his tenure with the Leopards. Among the headline decisions is the inclusion of 21-year-old Standard Lige goalkeeper Mathieu Epolo , who replaces clubless Dimitri Bertaud. The young shot-stopper, a product of Belgian footballs youth system, becomes the latest European-born player to pledge allegiance to the Congolese cause.

The Leopards faithful will be especially intrigued by the call-ups of Mario Stroeykens 20, Anderlecht and Michel-Ange Balikwisha Celtic, both previously involved with Belgiums youth sides. Stroeykens, described by Belgian observers as a technically sharp midfielder with creative flair, is the surprise of the selection a bold pick from Desabre that underlines his commitment to broadening the talent pool.

Balikwishas arrival follows months of speculation surrounding his switch of allegiance. His inclusion adds further attacking verve to a midfield that already features established names like Samuel Moutoussamy, Charles Pickel, and Edo Kayembe.

Injuries and form issues have shaped this squad as much as ambition. Yoane Wissas absence through injury is a major blow the Newcastle forward has been a central piece of Desabres attacking puzzle. Meanwhile, Simon Banza and Dylan Batubinsika both miss out, victims of limited game time at club level.

Desabres defensive setup remains anchored by experience, with Chancel Mbemba Lille and Axel Tuanzebe Burnley expected to marshal the backline. Aaron Wan-Bissaka, fresh off a strong run of form at West Ham, offers stability on the right, while Arthur Masuaku brings balance and leadership from the left.

The squad reflects a gradual generational shift, balancing seasoned campaigners with exciting prospects such as Nassim Sadiki Sunderland and Mukau Mukoko Lille. Their inclusion signals a deliberate move towards building depth for the long term, as the Leopards eye consistent continental competitiveness beyond these playoffs.

Upfront, Bni Cipenga, who impressed on debut against Sudan, retains his place and could be the wild card in Desabres attacking plan. With Cedric Bakambu and Fabrice Mayele completing the forward line, DR Congo will look to combine power, mobility, and efficiency in front of goal.

The task is formidable. Facing Cameroons Indomitable Lions, themselves hungry for redemption, will test every facet of Desabres project. Yet the Frenchmans gamble on youth may be precisely what DR Congo need fresh minds, fearless energy, and a hunger to make history.

A win in Rabat would set up a decisive final against either Nigeria or Gabon and bring the Leopards closer to a coveted intercontinental playoff berth in March 2026, keeping their World Cup dream very much alive.

Goalkeepers: Timothy Fayulu FC Noah, Armenia, Lionel Mpasi Le Havre, France, Mathieu Epolo Standard Lige, Belgium.

Defenders: Aaron Wan-Bissaka West Ham United, England, Gdon Kalulu Aris Limassol, Cyprus, Arthur Masuaku Sunderland, England, Joris Kayembe Genk, Belgium, Steven Kapuadi Legia Warszawa, Poland, Rocky Bushiri Hibernian, Scotland, Axel Tuanzebe Burnley, England, Chancel Mbemba Lille, France.

Midfielders: Nassim Sadiki Sunderland, England, Edo Kayembe Watford, England, Samuel Moutoussamy Atromitos, Greece, Charles Pickel Espanyol, Spain, Mukau Mukoko Lille, France, Mario Stroeykens Anderlecht, Belgium, Theo Bongonda Spartak Moscow, Russia, Michel-Ange Balikwisha Celtic, Scotland, Nathanal Mbuku Montpellier, France.

Attackers: Bni Cipenga Castelln, Spain, Meschack Elia Alanyaspor, Turkey, Fiston Mayele Pyramids FC, Egypt, Simon Essende Augsburg, Germany, Cedric Bakambu Real Betis, Spain.