By Jacqueline Kitamba,
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is making its long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup, ending a 52-year absence from football’s biggest stage.
The Leopards are participating in the tournament for the first time since 1974, when the country competed as Zaire. Their return marks a historic moment for Congolese football and a significant achievement for a nation that has spent decades watching the competition from the sidelines.
DRC’s journey to the 2026 World Cup is characterized by determination and resilience. After failing to qualify for the 2018 and 2022 editions, the Leopards mount a successful qualification campaign to secure their place among the world’s elite teams.
The team overcomes several major challenges during the qualifiers, including a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Nigeria in the African play-offs. The Leopards also hold their own against continental heavyweights Senegal before booking their World Cup ticket with a hard-fought 1-0 extra-time win over Jamaica in Mexico. Axel Tuanzebe scores the decisive goal that seals qualification.
Led by captain Chancel Mbemba and head coach Sébastien Desabre, the Leopards enter the tournament determined to make an impact. Their opening Group K fixture pits them against European giants Portugal in what is expected to be one of the group’s most anticipated matches.
For millions of Congolese supporters, the team’s participation represents more than a football achievement. It symbolizes perseverance, national pride and the revival of a footballing legacy that has remained dormant on the World Cup stage for more than five decades.
As the tournament progresses, DRC’s return stands as one of the compelling stories of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.