The DR Congo Leopards have added three Europe-based players to their squad ahead of the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff final against the Super Eagles of Nigeria on Sunday.
FIFA has officially approved the switch of allegiance for midfielder Michel-Ange Balikwisha, Standard Liège goalkeeper Matthieu Epolo, and Anderlecht midfielder Mario Stroeykens. All three previously represented Belgium at youth levels before applying for a one-time international switch under FIFA rules.
Balikwisha and Epolo were on the bench for DR Congo’s 1-0 win over Cameroon after receiving clearance on November 11 and 12. Stroeykens, however, missed Thursday’s squad announcement because the Congolese federation was notified of his eligibility just hours before kick-off.
The additions give the Leopards fresh options in midfield and goalkeeping as they prepare to face Nigeria in what promises to be a tense playoff.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria and DR Congo will clash at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm Nigerian time. If the Eagles win, they will qualify for the intercontinental playoffs in March 2026, the last phase of the qualification.
It was reports that DR Congo qualified for the CAF playoffs final after knocking out Cameroon with a lone goal. On the other hand, the Super Eagles booked their place in the final following a 4-1 win over Gabon.
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