After 52 years, the Democratic Republic of Congo have returned to the World Cup. Facing a three-match play-off route, including wins over Cameroon and a penalty shoot-out victory against Nigeria, Axel Tuanzebe tapped home in extra time to beat Jamaica and secure the long-awaited spot for the team nicknamed “The Leopards.”
Their only previous appearance was in 1974 when the nation, then Zaire, became the first sub‑Saharan African team to reach the tournament. The modern return carries huge symbolic weight for a country at the heart of Africa and amid ongoing social and political unrest.
One recurring image at Congo matches is Michel Kuka Mboladinga, a statue‑like fan who stands motionless with his hand raised for long periods. He pays tribute to Patrice Lumumba, the country’s first post‑independence prime minister and an enduring symbol of African liberation. Now the national team — a mix of players born in the country and children of the diaspora — serve as flag bearers of Congolese pride.
Zaire’s 1974 campaign left painful memories: administrative neglect, a 9-0 loss to Yugoslavia and Mwepu Ilunga’s infamous booting of a Brazil free‑kick before it was taken. The new generation have the chance to redeem that legacy.
At the helm is Sebastian Desabre, the French coach who has become an adopted “Zairewa.” Desabre has driven a quiet revolution within the national setup, improving standards despite difficult conditions — reports of delayed pay and poor training facilities are not uncommon. His calm demeanour, tactical acumen and ability to attract players committed to Congo have been crucial. A bold move to replace goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi with Timothy Fayulu before the penalty shoot‑out against Nigeria paid off and has been likened to Louis van Gaal’s famous 2014 substitution calls.
Although Congo did not build on their AFCON 2023 run and were knocked out in the subsequent tournament’s round of 16, there’s a sense of upward momentum. Desabre’s leadership has convinced players who might previously have chosen other national teams to pledge allegiance to Congo. Axel Tuanzebe, who scored the extra‑time winner, had represented England at youth level but committed to his birth country. Aaron Wan‑Bissaka, involved with England’s senior squad in 2019, switched allegiance last year and is now a right‑back mainstay. Young prospects like 21‑year‑old Noah Sadiki — eligible for Belgium but choosing Congo — show the appeal Desabre has created among the younger generation.
Historically, many players of Congolese heritage have elected to represent other nations — Vincent Kompany, Romelu Lukaku, Presnel Kimpembe, Steve Mandanda and Christopher Nkunku are among names who might have featured for Congo under different circumstances. Earlier Congolese sides featured characters like Dieumerci Mbokani, Yannick Bolasie and Robert Kidiaba, whose famous celebrations helped build the nation’s footballing identity. Today veterans such as captain Chancel Mbemba and LaLiga‑experienced Cédric Bakambu are tasked with guiding the next wave.
On the field, expect a team with pride, distinctive celebrations — including the Fimbu whip gesture — and the potential to surprise. Maybe not a tournament favourite, but a prowling leopard ready to spring a few shocks on football’s biggest stage.