DRC: Yoane Wissa returns to the national team despite limited playing time | OneFootball

DRC: Yoane Wissa returns to the national team despite limited playing time

DRC: Yoane Wissa returns to the national team despite limited playing time

Yoane Wissa makes his return to the DR Congo national team after several months away. The Newcastle striker is included in the squad announced by head coach Sébastien Desabre for the intercontinental play-off final, a crucial qualifier for the 2026 World Cup.

Absent from the Leopards' camp since September 2025 and missing the last Africa Cup of Nations, the Congolese forward rejoins the squad at a pivotal moment. His absence was felt keenly in the Leopards' attack during the continental tournament.

A comeback despite limited club minutes

It's a significant return, even though his club situation remains tricky. Since joining the Magpies last summer, Wissa has seen limited time on the pitch. Hampered by a few injuries and facing stiff competition up front, he has rarely started and even remained on the bench for several matches, notably during the club's recent European outings. He has played only 21 matches across all competitions, scoring 3 goals.

But for the Congolese coach, club form is not a barrier. Sébastien Desabre stands by his decisions and prioritizes what players bring when they wear the national shirt.

The Mbemba example

This approach is nothing new. The coach had already put his trust in defender Chancel Mbemba throughout 2025, even as Mbemba endured a tough spell at Marseille. Sidelined from his club squad at the time, Mbemba nevertheless became a pillar of the Congolese defense, playing a key role in the Leopards' success during the African play-offs.

The defender especially stood out in the decisive clash against Cameroon before helping secure the final victory over Nigeria in a penalty shootout. In this vein, Wissa's return is a clear and deliberate choice by the coach. The striker could inject pace, penetration, and attacking experience into a Congolese side facing a high-stakes test on March 31.

The Leopards will take on the winner of the New Caledonia vs Jamaica matchup in this intercontinental play-off final, a clash that could open the door for DR Congo to the 2026 World Cup. Wissa's return comes at the perfect time for a Congolese team searching for attacking efficiency in this decisive showdown.