Newcastle United have received a timely boost during the international break after Yoane Wissa marked his return to action with a goal for the DR Congo national football team.
The forward, who has endured a frustrating first season at St James’ Park, found the net in a 2-0 friendly victory over Bermuda national football team—a moment that could prove crucial for both club and country.
A Long Road Back from Injury
Wissa’s journey this season has been anything but smooth. After completing a £55 million move from Brentford FC, the 29-year-old suffered a serious knee injury while on international duty back in September.
The setback came at the worst possible time—just days after his arrival and following a period without pre-season preparation. Having played two matches in quick succession for DR Congo, Wissa was sidelined for three months, delaying his Newcastle debut significantly.
Although he returned to fitness ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, a joint decision was made by club and country to keep him on Tyneside to rebuild his condition rather than risk another setback.
Promising Start, Then Frustration
When Wissa eventually made his debut, there were immediate signs of promise. He scored on his full debuts in the Carabao Cup, Premier League, and even the Champions League—suggesting Newcastle had secured a top-quality attacking option.
However, that early momentum quickly faded. Since January, Wissa has struggled for consistent minutes and has failed to add to his goal tally in the league, managing just one strike in the competition so far.
For a player who scored 19 Premier League goals last season—second only to Mohamed Salah in non-penalty goals—his dip in form has been stark.
International Duty Offers Fresh Opportunity
The international break has provided Wissa with a much-needed platform to regain rhythm and confidence. His goal against Bermuda, albeit from the penalty spot, represents a step in the right direction.
More importantly, it comes just days before a decisive World Cup play-off clash. DR Congo are now one match away from securing their first World Cup appearance since 1974.
They are set to face either Jamaica national football team or New Caledonia national football team in a high-stakes encounter in Mexico. Wissa will be expected to play a key role as his nation chases history.
FIFA Rejects Nigeria Complaint
Off the pitch, DR Congo have also received a major boost. FIFA has rejected a formal complaint from the Nigeria Football Federation, clearing the way for the play-off to go ahead.
Nigeria had challenged DR Congo’s eligibility to compete, claiming that players such as Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe were ineligible due to nationality rules.
However, after reviewing the case, FIFA dismissed the appeal, allowing DR Congo to proceed without disruption.
Big Moment for Wissa and Newcastle
For Newcastle, Wissa’s return to scoring form could not come at a better time. With the season entering its decisive phase, the Magpies need attacking depth and consistency.
If Wissa can carry his international confidence back to club football, he could still play a key role in Newcastle’s ambitions—both domestically and in Europe.
After months of setbacks, this international break may finally mark the turning point in his season.
