C. Bakambu

The Democratic Republic of Congo arrive at the 2026 World Cup as one of the tournament's clear underdogs. Our AI model assigns them a 0.0% chance of lifting the trophy, with the same negligible probability of reaching either the final or the semifinals — a reflection of the steep climb facing a side that must overcome both elite opposition and significant off-field disruption. Recent headlines have centred on the squad's isolation amid an Ebola outbreak, forcing the federation to alter its World Cup preparation plans, hardly the ideal backdrop for a major campaign.

The squad does carry genuine attacking quality. Midfielder B. Cipenga has been the standout, contributing six goals and nine assists for Castellón at a 7.19 rating, while veteran G. Kakuta brings end product with eight goals and three assists at Sakaryaspor. Up front, N. Mbuku has chipped in with four goals and five assists for Montpellier, and F. Mayele adds African experience from Pyramids FC with five goals. The clear concern is preparation: the Ebola-related isolation and revised planning threaten to undermine cohesion before kickoff.

With the group draw still to be confirmed, the road ahead looks daunting. The Leopards have the individual talent to trouble opponents and spring a surprise on their day, but the model's numbers tell a sober story. Realistically, escaping the group stage would represent a strong achievement for this generation.