DR Congo will step up their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they take on Denmark in an international friendly at Stade Maurice Dufrasne in Liege, Belgium, on Wednesday evening.
The Leopards head into the contest in buoyant mood after ending a 52-year wait for a return to football’s biggest stage, while Denmark are looking to begin a new chapter following the disappointment of failing to qualify for the World Cup.
Sebastien Desabre’s men have been one of Africa’s most improved sides over the past two years. Their impressive qualification campaign saw them navigate a difficult route to the finals, overcoming Cameroon and Nigeria in the African playoffs before edging Jamaica in an intercontinental playoff to secure their place at the expanded 48-team tournament.
The Congolese side have also shown remarkable consistency in recent months. They have lost only once in their last 10 international matches, winning eight of those fixtures while keeping seven clean sheets. Their defensive solidity has become one of their greatest strengths, providing a platform for their attacking players to flourish.
However, preparations for the World Cup have not been entirely smooth. The recent Ebola outbreak in the country forced the team to relocate its training camp to Belgium, disrupting normal preparations ahead of the tournament. Despite those challenges, the Leopards remain focused on building momentum before facing Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan in Group K.
Denmark arrive in Belgium with a point to prove after suffering heartbreak during the European qualification playoffs. Brian Riemer’s side missed out on the World Cup after losing to Czech Republic on penalties following a dramatic playoff final.
The Red and Whites are currently undergoing a transition period, with several experienced players stepping away from international football. Despite criticism following the failed qualification campaign, Riemer has retained the backing of the Danish Football Association and is now tasked with rebuilding the national team around a new generation of talent.
While Denmark will not be participating in the World Cup this summer, they still possess significant quality throughout the squad. The likes of Christian Eriksen, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Rasmus Hojlund provide experience and attacking threat, ensuring the Europeans remain dangerous opponents.
This will be the first-ever meeting between DR Congo and Denmark, adding extra intrigue to what promises to be a competitive encounter in Belgium.
What time does DR Congo vs Denmark start?
Kick-off is scheduled for 9:00 PM EAT on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at Stade Maurice Dufrasne in Liege, Belgium.
Denmark vs DR Congo team news
DR Congo boss Sebastien Desabre could use the fixture to assess several members of his squad while ensuring key players maintain match sharpness ahead of the World Cup.
Defenders Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are both expected to feature, while experienced centre-back Chancel Mbemba could marshal the backline.
In midfield, Noah Sadiki will be hoping to impress, while Yoane Wissa remains one of the Leopards’ biggest attacking threats after another productive campaign at club level.
Denmark will be without legendary goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel following his retirement from professional football.
Jannik Vestergaard and Christian Norgaard have also stepped away from international duty, while several regular squad members have been omitted from this camp.
Christian Eriksen is expected to start and could reach another major international milestone, while Newcastle United striker Will Osula could earn his senior debut after a strong finish to the club season.
Predicted Lineups
DR Congo possible starting XI:
Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Masuaku; Elia, Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Bongonda; Wissa, Bakambu
Denmark possible starting XI:
Hermansen; Bah, Andersen, Hogsberg, Maehle; Eriksen, Hojbjerg, Hjulmand; Isaksen, Hojlund, Dorgu
DR Congo vs Denmark head-to-head record and current form
This will be the first-ever meeting between DR Congo and Denmark.
The Leopards come into the match with impressive momentum, having won eight of their last 10 matches across all competitions and establishing themselves as one of Africa’s most organised sides.
Denmark’s recent form has been less convincing. The disappointment of missing out on the World Cup remains fresh, and the team continues to search for consistency during a period of transition.
Despite their struggles, the Danes still possess quality across the pitch and have the technical ability to trouble any opponent on their day.
Denmark vs DR Congo prediction
DR Congo have developed into a disciplined and difficult side to break down under Desabre, while Denmark are still searching for the right balance following their qualification disappointment.
The Leopards will be eager to continue building confidence ahead of their World Cup campaign and should not be overawed by their European opponents.
Denmark possess greater experience at the highest level, but questions remain regarding their cohesion and ability to convert possession into clear-cut chances.
With both teams expected to rotate and manage player workloads ahead of future assignments, a tightly contested encounter appears likely.