World Cup 2026 (Q): Another withdrawal for DR Congo ahead of Sudan clash!

DR Congo: Sadiki and Bakambu ruled out for decisive match against Sudan

RD Congo / @x.com/StreamFootRDC/

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has suffered yet another setback just days before their decisive match against Sudan, scheduled for the final round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.According to a statement from the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA), midfielder Noah Sadiki (20 years old) will miss the game due to an ankle injury. The player will return to his club to continue his rehabilitation program, making him unavailable to French coach Sébastien Desabre for the match set for Tuesday in Kinshasa.FECOFA wished Sadiki a speedy recovery, praising his role with the "Leopards."

🚨 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐐𝐔𝐄́ 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐄𝐋#Fecofardc#Leopards#NoahSadiki#CdM2026pic.twitter.com/FIpDEpn6BF

— Fecofa RDC_Officiel (@FecofaRdc) October 12, 2025

Sadiki’s heartfelt words before the showdown with Sudan

In the same context, the Sunderland player posted on his official Instagram account:

"I was eager to play again in Kinshasa in front of our fans to take my revenge, but that’s life. I’ll be with my nation and my teammates in spirit. I’m confident they’ll give their very best."

This announcement comes after confirmation that star striker Cédric Bakambu will also be sidelined, suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards.As a reminder, the "Leopards" are aiming for a win against Sudan while hoping for a slip-up from Senegal against Mauritania to secure direct qualification for the final phase.

🐆Sadiki forfait !

Touché à la cheville, Noah Sadiki manquera la 10e journée des éliminatoires de la Coupe du Monde face au Soudan.

Victime d’une entorse, le milieu de Sunderland AFC a regagné son club hier soir pour y poursuivre ses soins.#congo#sadikipic.twitter.com/1TWMrXl4UB

— LEOPARDSFOOT (@leopardsfoot) October 13, 2025