Almost all DR Congo players at the World Cup were born in Europe; see list

Of the 26 players called up from the Democratic Republic of Congo, which debuts in the 2026 World Cup this Wednesday (17) against Portugal, 20 athletes were born in Europe.

The number makes the African team the second in the World Cup with the most players born in another country, behind only Curaçao, which has 25 names born in the Netherlands.

In the case of DR Congo, 11 athletes were born in France, 5 in Belgium, 2 in England and 2 in Switzerland.

As with the other selections, the curious fact is the result of factors such as family inheritance and naturalization processes over the last few decades, based on the movement known as the African diaspora.

In total, 258 players born outside the country they will represent will be at the 2026 World Cup, considering the lists released.

Players from the Democratic Republic of Congo arrive at a hotel in Houston before the FIFA World Cup - IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters
Another detail that caught the attention of DR Congo was the look chosen by the delegation to arrive in the USA, which featured an accessory that simulated Leonardo's skin, one of the country's symbols.

In addition to the match against Portugal this Wednesday (17th), the African team will also face Colombia, in Guadalajara, on the 23rd, and Uzbekistan, in Atlanta, on the 27th.

See DR Congo players who were born in Europe

- Lionel Mpasi (France)
- Arthur Masuaku (France)
- Gédéon Kalulu (France)
- Dylan Batubinsika (France)
- Steve Kapuadi (France)
- Samuel Moutoussamy (France)
- Gael Kakuta (France)
- Cédric Bakambu (France)
- Yoane Wissa (France)
- Nathanael Mbuku (France)
- Simon Banza (France)
- Matthieu Epolo (Belgium)
- Joris Kayembe (Belgium
- Noah Sadiki (Belgium)
- Ngal'ayel Mukau (Belgium)
- Théo Bongonda (Belgium)
- Aaron Wan-Bissaka (England)
- Aaron Tshibola (England)
- Timothy Fayulu (Switzerland)
- Charles Pickel (Switzerland)

Mbappé reveals which players he would like to face in the World Cup

Source: CNN