Is Aaron Wan-Bissaka Ready for His DR Congo Debut Ahead of FIFA WC Qualifiers?
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Synopsis
West Ham United's Aaron Wan-Bissaka is on the brink of a significant milestone as he prepares to debut for DR Congo in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. This marks a pivotal moment as he switches his international allegiance, aiming to help his new team secure a spot in the finals. Can he lead the Leopards to victory?
Key Takeaways
- Aaron Wan-Bissaka accepts call-up to represent DR Congo.
- He aims to help the team qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- DR Congo currently leads Group B with 13 points.
- Upcoming matches against South Sudan and Senegal are crucial.
- Victory could solidify their position for qualification.
New Delhi, Sep 3 (NationPress) - West Ham United's Aaron Wan-Bissaka is set to make his debut for DR Congo after accepting a call-up from the Leopards for two crucial qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The reigning Hammer of the Year has been selected by head coach Sébastien Desabre and has officially shifted his international allegiance from England to his parents' homeland.
Born in Croydon, Wan-Bissaka previously represented DR Congo at the U20 level, competing against England in a friendly match. He later transitioned to play for England at both U20 and U21 levels, participating in the 2019 UEFA European U21 Championship finals.
The former wingback for Crystal Palace and Manchester United is now poised to begin his senior international career with DR Congo, which aims to qualify for the World Cup for the second time, the first since their appearance as Zaire in 1974.
DR Congo will face South Sudan away before welcoming Senegal, led by El Hadji Malick Diouf, in two vital qualifiers in early September.
Heading into this international window, DR Congo leads Group B with 13 points from six matches, while Senegal and Sudan follow closely behind, each with 12 points. The group winners will qualify directly for next summer's finals in North America, while the runners-up will enter a second round for a chance at an inter-confederation playoff.
Alongside Togo, South Sudan, and Mauritania, they make up the six-team group, though these teams are realistically out of the qualification race.
The Leopards' journey begins at Juba Stadium against South Sudan on Friday, followed by a home match against Senegal at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa on Tuesday, September 9.
A win in both matches would put DR Congo in a strong position to qualify, leading into matches against Togo and Sudan to wrap up their Group B qualifying campaign in October.
Point of View
We recognize the impact of Aaron Wan-Bissaka's commitment to DR Congo. His experience in European football brings valuable expertise to the national team. This move reflects not only his personal journey but also the aspirations of a nation eager for World Cup success. We stand with DR Congo as they embark on this crucial qualifying campaign.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Aaron Wan-Bissaka switch to DR Congo?
Aaron Wan-Bissaka switched to DR Congo to represent his parents' homeland, embracing his heritage after previously playing for England at youth levels.
What are the upcoming matches for DR Congo?
DR Congo will play against South Sudan away and host Senegal in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
What is at stake for DR Congo in these qualifiers?
DR Congo aims to qualify for the World Cup finals for the second time, needing strong performances in these qualifiers to secure a spot.
How is DR Congo performing in their qualifying group?
Currently, DR Congo leads Group B with 13 points from six matches, positioning themselves favorably in the race for qualification.
When will the matches take place?
The matches are scheduled for early September, with the game against South Sudan on Friday and the home match against Senegal on Tuesday, September 9.
