Who are DR Congo's players? From Premier League stars to Chelsea flop | OneFootball

Who are DR Congo's players? From Premier League stars to Chelsea flop | OneFootball

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Evening Standard

·1 July 2026

Who are DR Congo's players? From Premier League stars to Chelsea flop

Article image:Who are DR Congo's players? From Premier League stars to Chelsea flop

Plenty of familiar faces will be on show against England tonight at World Cup

DR Congo are set to take on England tonight for a place in the World Cup round of 16.


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Sebastien Desabre's side booked their place in the knockout stages for the first time in their history after finishing as one of the best third-placed teams in a group containing Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan.

After holding Portugal to a draw in their opening group game, they lost 1-0 to Colombia before coming from behind to beat Uzbekistan and seal a first-ever meeting with England in the round of 32.

DR Congo’s squad is made up of several current and former Premier League players, including Newcastle forward Yoane Wissa, who is level with Harry Kane on three World Cup goals so far this tournament.

With so much Premier League interest, Standard Sport ran the rule over which players to look out for in the DR Congo squad…

Article image:Who are DR Congo's players? From Premier League stars to Chelsea flop

Yoane Wissa

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Lionel M'Pasi

First-choice goalkeeper who has played every minute for the Leopards.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka

Recently relegated with West Ham, the Croydon-born full-back made three appearances for England’s youth teams. Ironically played as a striker for DR Congo against England in 2015.

Chancel Mbemba

Former Newcastle defender and DR Congo’s captain, with over 100 international appearances.

Axel Tuanzebe

Now at Burnley after coming through Manchester United’s academy. Made 12 England appearances across various age groups.

Article image:Who are DR Congo's players? From Premier League stars to Chelsea flop

Arthur Masuaku

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Arthur Masuaku

Currently at Sunderland after leaving West Ham. Has made over 100 Premier League appearances.

Nathanael Mbuku

Former French wonderkid, who made two senior appearances for Les Bleues. He declared for DR Congo two years ago.

Samuel Moutoussamy

Mainstay of DR Congo’s midfield who will be tasked with stopping Jude Bellingham and co.

Noah Sadiki

Sunderland midfielder tipped for big things and potentially on the move this summer.

Theo Bongonda

Former Belgian youth international. Currently without a club, so playing with a point to prove in something of a problem position for DR Congo.

Article image:Who are DR Congo's players? From Premier League stars to Chelsea flop

Gael Kakuta

Getty Images

Gael Kakuta

Was meant to be the next big thing when he arrived at Chelsea in 2007 in a controversial deal that saw the west London club serve a transfer ban. Rebuilt his career after leaving the Blues and is now 35.

Veteran forward best remembered for his time at Villarreal. 21 goals in 72 games for DR Congo.

Yoane Wissa

Far and away DR Congo’s best player and goalscorer. Has found form at the World Cup after a difficult season at Newcastle.

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