DR Congo return to the World Cup finals for the first time since 1974, when they played as Zaire. You now watch a new Leopards generation face Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan in North America.
DR Congo World Cup 2026 Schedule (Local Time, Kinshasa)
The World Cup runs from 11 June to 19 July 2026 across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
DR Congo play three confirmed group matches in Group K, all against strong but beatable teams.
Most of the country uses West Africa Time, so this table converts from USA Eastern Time to UTC+1 (Kinshasa, Mbandaka, Matadi).
| Date (2026) | Local Time (Kinshasa, UTC+1) | Stadium | Match |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17 June | 6:00 PM | NRG Stadium | 🇨🇩 DR Congo vs Portugal |
| 24 June | 3:00 AM (24 June) | Estadio Akron | 🇨🇩 DR Congo vs Colombia |
| 28 June | 2:30 AM (28 June) | Mercedes‑Benz Stadium | 🇨🇩 DR Congo vs Uzbekistan |
Explanation of times:
- FOX list the first game at 1:00 PM Eastern Time in Houston. That equals 6:00 PM in Kinshasa at UTC+1.
- The Colombia match starts 10:00 PM Eastern Time in Mexico. This converts to 3:00 AM in Kinshasa the next day.
- The Uzbekistan match kicks off 7:30 PM Eastern Time in Atlanta. That equals 2:30 AM in Kinshasa the next day.
If you live in the eastern part of DR Congo (Lubumbashi, Kisangani), add one extra hour, because that region uses UTC+2.
Travel and Rest Notes for Fans
- Evening kick‑off against Portugal suits after‑work viewing in Kinshasa.
- The two late‑night matches demand serious commitment from fans, with viewing around 3:00 AM and 2:30 AM.
DR Congo World Cup History and Records
DR Congo’s only previous World Cup appearance came in 1974, under the name Zaire. They became the first sub‑Saharan African team to play at a World Cup finals.
In 1974 they faced Brazil, Scotland, and Yugoslavia and lost all three group matches. The heavy defeat to Yugoslavia, 9–0, still hurts older fans today.
After 1974, DR Congo missed every World Cup until this 2026 return. This comeback follows wins over Cameroon, Nigeria, and Jamaica in the play‑offs, showing clear progress.
The national federation, FECOFA, receives at least 10.5 million dollars from FIFA for qualifying. That money supports preparation, logistics, and bonus agreements for players and staff.
Predictions and Tactical Outlook
Head coach Sébastien Desabre took charge in 2022 and built a balanced, modern team.
He has rich experience across African club and national sides, which helps with tournament management.
Group K Prospects
- Portugal bring world‑class depth and are clear favourites in the group.
- Colombia press with intensity and have strong tournament know‑how.
- Uzbekistan are less famous but play disciplined, organised football.
You can expect DR Congo to target at least four points. A draw against Colombia and a win over Uzbekistan could push them into the knockouts if goal difference helps.
Playing Style
Desabre’s DR Congo combine physical power with quick transitions. The side often uses a back four with athletic full‑backs and mobile forwards who attack space.
- At the back, Chancel Mbemba leads the line with experience and composure.
- In midfield, players like Samuel Moutoussamy and Edo Kayembe give energy and ball‑winning.
- In attack, Yoane Wissa and Cedric Bakambu bring Premier League and La Liga know‑how.
Key Players to Watch
- Chancel Mbemba (Lille, DF) – Captain, record appearance holder, and emotional leader.
- Yoane Wissa (Newcastle, FW) – Versatile attacker with goals and pressing intensity.
- Cedric Bakambu (Real Betis, FW) – Veteran scorer close to the all‑time national record.
- Aaron Wan‑Bissaka (West Ham, DF) – Elite one‑on‑one defender on the right side.
- Theo Bongonda (Spartak Moscow, MF) – Creative wide player who can unlock deep defences.
If these leaders stay fit, you should expect DR Congo to fight for second place in Group K.
Potential DR Congo Squad for World Cup 2026
This projected squad comes from the March 2026 selection used for the decisive play‑off and recent friendlies. Final lists may change, but these names look very likely if healthy.
| Position | Player | Club |
|---|---|---|
| GK | Lionel Mpasi | Le Havre |
| GK | Timothy Fayulu | Noah |
| GK | Matthieu Epolo | Standard Liège |
| DEF | Chancel Mbemba | Lille |
| DEF | Arthur Masuaku | Lens |
| DEF | Joris Kayembe | Genk |
| DEF | Dylan Batubinsika | AEL |
| DEF | Axel Tuanzebe | Burnley |
| DEF | Aaron Wan‑Bissaka | West Ham |
| DEF | Rocky Bushiri | Hibernian |
| DEF | Steve Kapuadi | Widzew Łódź |
| DEF | Jeremy Ngakia | Watford |
| MID | Meschak Elia | Alanyaspor |
| MID | Samuel Moutoussamy | Atromitos |
| MID | Edo Kayembe | Watford |
| MID | Theo Bongonda | Spartak Moscow |
| MID | Charles Pickel | Espanyol |
| MID | Noah Sadiki | Sunderland |
| MID | Nathanael Mbuku | Lille |
| MID | Ngal’ayel Mukau | Lille |
| MID | Grady Diangana | Elche |
| MID | Brian Cipenga | Castellon |
| FWD | Cedric Bakambu | Real Betis |
| FWD | Fiston Mayele | Pyramids |
| FWD | Yoane Wissa | Newcastle |
| FWD | Simon Banza | Al Jazira |
You can expect two or three younger players to challenge this core before June 2026. Injuries or club form may also open spots for domestic league talents.
How to Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 in DR Congo
Official FIFA 2026 Broadcaster in DR Congo
- Free TV: RTNC holds terrestrial free‑to‑air rights in DR Congo.
- Paid TV: Some matches may appear on sub‑licensed pay‑TV partners, but details remain unconfirmed.
- Streaming: RTNC’s own digital platforms or regional OTT partners likely stream games, but exact services are not yet fully announced.
Pricing in Congolese franc (CDF) is not yet public for dedicated World Cup packages.
Based on past tournaments, you should expect:
- Free coverage of key matches on RTNC.
- Optional pay‑TV or streaming bundles for complete coverage at a modest monthly rate.
Because packages can change close to the tournament, you should check the FIFA official site, RTNC’s website, and global platforms like ESPN or Goal for final updates.
Broadcasters and Access: Quick View
| Type | Provider (expected) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Free TV | RTNC | Main national broadcaster, likely shows DR Congo matches. |
| Pay TV | Regional pay‑TV partners | Latest available information suggests partial rights only. |
| Streaming | RTNC digital / regional OTT | Details and prices still pending announcement. |
FAQs
Has DR Congo ever played at a World Cup before 2026?
Yes. They played at the 1974 World Cup as Zaire and exited in the group stage.
Which group are DR Congo in at World Cup 2026?
DR Congo appear in Group K with Portugal, Colombia, and Uzbekistan.
Who is DR Congo’s coach for World Cup 2026?
Sébastien Desabre manages the national team after taking over in 2022.
Who are DR Congo’s star players for 2026?
Key names include Chancel Mbemba, Yoane Wissa, Cedric Bakambu, Aaron Wan‑Bissaka, and Theo Bongonda.
When does DR Congo play Portugal at the World Cup?
They face Portugal on 17 June 2026 in Houston, at 6:00 PM in Kinshasa.
What time is DR Congo vs Colombia in local DR Congo time?
Kick‑off is 3:00 AM in Kinshasa on 24 June 2026.
How can you watch DR Congo matches live in DR Congo?
Latest available information suggests RTNC will show matches on free TV, with possible pay‑TV or streaming partners.
Can DR Congo reach the knockout stage in 2026?
If they beat Uzbekistan and take points off Colombia, they have a realistic chance to reach the round of 32.
Where can you find official schedule updates?
You should follow the FIFA official site, RTNC announcements, and trusted outlets such as ESPN and Goal.
