DR Congo starting lineup vs Colombia confirmed for FIFA World Cup 2026 match
(Courtesy : Getty)
The Leopards are still waiting for their first-ever win in the World Cup.
DR Congo take on Colombia in a Group K clash in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 at Estadio Akron in Zapopan on June 23. The Leopards marked their return to the biggest football tournament with a spirited draw against Portugal and will look to get another positive result tonight to take a step towards qualification for the knockouts.
Despite conceding after just six minutes via Joao Neves’ brilliant strike, the African side did not retreat into a defensive shape. Instead, they gave the Selecao das Quinas a run for their money and eventually found the equaliser before half-time through Yoan Wissa.
That was the first point the Congolese team had earned in the World Cup, having lost all three of their games in 1978. They will look to go one step further in tonight’s match and push for all three points against Colombia.
However, it is easier said than done, with La Tricolor coming into the match after a 3-1 win over Uzbekistan. The South American side will be the favourites in tonight’s match, but DR Congo will provide them with a stern test.
Also Read: Colombia vs DR Congo: Top five players to watch out for in FIFA World Cup 2026
Let’s look at the DR Congo confirmed lineup for the FIFA World Cup 2026 match against Colombia:
DR Congo (5-3-2): Lionel Mpasi; Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe, Steve Kapuadi, Arthur Masuaku; Ngalayel Mukau, Samuel Moutoussamy, Edo Kayembe; Yoane Wissa, Cedric Bakambu.
Substitutes: Matthieu Epolo (gk), Timothy Fayulu (gk), Simon Banza, Dylan Batubinsika, Theo Bongonda, Brian Cipenga, Meschack Elia, Gael Kakuta, Gedeon Kalulu, Joris Kayembe, Fiston Mayele, Nathanael Mbuku, Charles Pickel, Noah Sadiki, Aaron Tshibola.
Thoughts on the lineup
Sebastien Desabre will stick with his defensive 5-3-2 shape, at least for the start of the match. With no fresh injuries to contend with, the head coach has stuck with an unchanged lineup.
Le Havre goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi keeps his place between the sticks. His goal will be shielded by the defensive lineup marshalled by captain Chancel Mbemba, who excelled against Portugal. He will be joined by former Manchester United prospect Axel Tuanzebe and Poland-based Steve Kapuadi.
West Ham’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Lens’ Arthur Masuaku, both of whom were superb going forward in the last match, start as wing-backs. However, they will certainly push forward during the match, especially if their side take the lead.
Indian-origin Samuel Moutoussamy is once again tasked with anchoring the midfield. He is joined by Watford’s Edo Kayembe on the left. Meanwhile, Ngal Ayel Mukau is once again picked ahead of Sunderland youngster Noah Sadiki.
The two-man strike partnership of Cedric Bakambu and Yoane Wissa are key to DR Congo’s chances of causing another upset. 35-year-old Bakambu can become his nation’s joint-highest scorer with a goal tonight.
When is Colombia vs DR Congo FIFA World Cup 2026 match?
The Group K clash is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Estadio Akron in Zapopan, Mexico. In India, the match will kick off at 7:30 AM IST on June 24.
Where to watch Colombia vs DR Congo match in India?
Fans in India can watch the game live on Zee5 (premium subscription required) or on Unite8 Sports TV channels.
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.